HASTINGS, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – A Hastings man is facing multiple charges in connection to a fire that completely destroyed a historic building in Hastings.
On Thursday, the Barry County Prosecutor’s Office issued charges against 21-year-old Keigan Sochor for the massive fire that broke out at The Royal Coach Building at East Mill and Hanover streets on October 7th.
#BREAKING: Crews are on scene battling a large fire at a building near Mill St & Hanover St in Hastings. Officials have the area taped off. @WOODTV pic.twitter.com/3Isj1bhImX
— Dana Whyte (@dwhytereports) October 7, 2020
There were no reports of injuries at the time of the fire and no one was inside the building. The fire caused power outages and prompted school closings around the area early that morning.
The structure was built in the late 1800s and was going to be turned into housing.
On Thursday, Sochor was arraigned with charges of third-degree arson, preparation to burn property $20,000 or more, and two counts of entry without breaking with intent. If convicted, the first two felonies carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison or a fine and the other two counts carry a maximum of five years or a possible fine.
Sochor’s bond is set at $250,000 cash or surety and a probable cause conference is set for October 28th.
