A devastating fire engulfed the historic Victory Mill in Saratoga County, New York, on Saturday, May 31, reducing a nearly 180-year-old landmark to ruins. Now, a 14-year-old is facing arson charges in connection with the inferno.
Flames Erupt at Beloved Community Landmark
The fire broke out around 2:27 p.m. in the village of Victory Mills, with flames quickly spreading throughout the large structure, officials from the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) confirmed.
Local fire crews responded swiftly, but the intensity of the blaze forced them into a defensive strategy, according to Fire Chief Ryan Campbell of the Victory Mills Fire Department.
“The building was fully involved when I arrived,” Campbell said. “There were no reports of anyone inside, so we decided no one would enter the structure.”
Towering Smoke Seen for Miles
Footage captured by WNYT and Tri-County Fire Videos showed thick black smoke billowing into the sky, visible from more than 2 miles away.
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“The entire building is up in flames,” said WNYT’s Zach Richter, who described the mill as “the Hogwarts of the neighborhood” because of its towering, castle-like presence in the community.
One eyewitness reported feeling intense heat from behind a fence and described watching the structure collapse in sections as the fire raged.
Teen Charged with Arson
According to CBS 6 Albany, a 14-year-old minor has been charged with arson, with the case being handled in family court. The teen’s identity has not been released due to age.
The Saratoga County Cause and Origin Team is still working to determine the official cause of the fire.
A 179-Year Legacy in Flames
Victory Mill, first opened in 1846, was a major part of the area’s industrial history and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Though it ceased operations in 2000, the site remained a prominent and cherished landmark in the village.
Local residents are mourning the loss of what many considered a symbol of the town’s identity and history.
Investigation Ongoing
By the evening of May 31, firefighters had the fire under control, and authorities have since launched a full investigation. The SCSO, fire marshals, and other agencies are all involved in determining how the fire began and what other factors may have contributed.
Community Reacts:
“It’s heartbreaking. That mill was part of our history.”
“Never thought we’d see it go up in flames like that.”
“You could feel the heat. It was terrifying.”
Stay tuned for more updates as officials continue to investigate the fire’s cause and legal proceedings unfold.
