Jeremy Ratliff
Reporter
On Friday April 29, David E. Ostrowksi, 22 of Merrill- was taken into custody by officers of Merrill Police Department on multiple felony charges related to an October 22, 2015 arson fire, which resulted in the total loss of a residence located at 1900 E. First Street.
On Tuesday May 2nd, Ostrowski appeared in Lincoln County Circuit Court facing Felony charges of 1st Degree Recklessly Endangering Safety; Arson of a Building without Owners Consent; Injury by Negligent Use of a Weapon/Explosive; Burglary to Building or Dwelling; Criminal Damage to Property over $2,500 and Felony-Bail Jumping.
According to court records, in the early morning hours of Oct. 22, 2015 Ostrowski was reportedly involved in the arson fire at 1900 E. 1st St. of which seven people were inside, including 5 teenagers.
According to notes from investigating officers, Ostrowski reportedly stated he “had been thinking about burning down a house to show the owners what it was like to lose everything they had.” Ostrowski allegedly entered one of the garages of the residence and doused an antique automobile in gasoline and oil before setting it afire. The blaze quickly spread and engulfed the residence. The home was later found to be a total loss
and cash value of items and possessions lost in the blaze was estimated to be over $2,500.
Ostrowski remains in custody at the Lincoln County Jail on $100.000 cash bond.