On January 31, 2026, at 7:08 a.m., firefighters were dispatched to 170 First Street for a reported structure fire. The caller reported the hallway was filled with smoke and that they were calling from the roof of the building.

Engine Six, Engine two, Engine four, Truck two, Truck one, the Rescue Squad, Medic four, and the Battalion Chief responded. Snow-covered streets and vehicles extending farther into intersections due to snow buildup created tight access conditions, slightly delaying the first-due engine. Upon arrival, crews reported nothing visible from the exterior, but an audible alarm sounding from inside the building.

Firefighters forced entry through the front door and encountered a significant smoke condition in the hallway, where a cabinet was actively burning. A precautionary hand line was stretched as crews removed the burning contents and threw them into a nearby snowbank, preventing the fire from extending beyond the immediate area.

Occupants were safely removed from the rear of the structure via a ladder due to the heavy smoke condition. Firefighters searched the remainder of the building and located no additional fire. No injuries were reported. Crews returned to service shortly after repacking hose lines and equipment.

Due to the circumstances of the incident, fire investigators were requested to the scene. Investigators worked alongside the Troy Police Department and determined the fire was suspicious in nature. Detectives responded to assist in the investigation.

Authorities later concluded the fire had been intentionally ignited. With assistance from individuals associated with the residence, investigators developed a suspect description. Working in coordination with crime analysts from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services Capital Region Crime Analysis Center and members of the Albany Police Department, the suspect was identified and located in Albany Saturday afternoon.

The suspect, identified as Derrick D. Moore, 49, of Albany, was taken into custody, interviewed, and charged with Arson in the Second Degree and Reckless Endangerment in the First Degree in connection with the incident. He was arraigned in Troy City Court and remanded to the Rensselaer County Jail.

Preliminary information indicates the suspect was involved in a dispute with another individual associated with the residence, leading to the intentional ignition of the fire. Officials credited the rapid response and coordinated investigative efforts for preventing further damage and ensuring accountability.