WORCESTER, Mass. — A woman has been arrested after running back into a burning building that left five people, including a firefighter, hospitalized in Worcester.
According to police, the fire started around 10:42 p.m. in a rooming house on at 41 May Street.
Initial reports came in that people were still on the third floor during the fire.
Police say upon arrival, the scene was chaotic, and it was difficult to determine who was a resident.
Two people came out and said that they were on the third floor and it was determined that everyone was out of the building.
For an unknown reason, police say 37-year-old Sarah Beth Martinez ran back into the burning building barefoot.
She was immediately placed under arrest.
Martinez is charged with obstructing a firefighter, interfering with a firefighter, resisting arrest, disturbing the peace, and disorderly conduct. She also has two outstanding warrants.
Four residents were transported to the hospital, as well as one firefighter.
The fire remains under investigation.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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