14-Year-Old arrested for allegedly setting fire to 180-Year-Old Victory Mill in New York
A devastating blaze engulfs a historic New York landmark as authorities arrest a 14-year-old in connection to the fire, sparking community shock and urgent questions about preserving the past amid tragedy.
A big fire erupted at the former Victory Mill in Victory Mills, Saratoga County, New York, on May 31, 2025. The 1846-built mill, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, had been idle since 2000. The fire consumed the building quickly, and smoke was visible two miles away. Firefighters were prompt but adopted a defensive strategy, considering the intensity of the fire and the condition of the building. Fortunately, no one was hurt since the mill was unoccupied when the fire erupted.
Offices apprehended a 14-year-old male in connection with the fire and charged him with arson. The arrest was verified by the Saratoga County Sheriff's Office, and the case will proceed to family court. The minor's name is not public because he is a minor. The origin of the fire is still under investigation by the Saratoga County Cause and Origin team and other agencies. Officials haven't given further details pending the ongoing investigation.
Victory Mill fire hastens demolition plans
The Victory Mill was a five-story, 230,000-square-foot building that was instrumental in the development of the village. Even though it had stood vacant for more than two decades, the mill was scheduled to be demolished as part of a redevelopment proposal backed by the Empire State Development Corporation. Under the plan, the property was to be converted into seniors' housing and commercial outlets. The blaze has now accelerated the demand for demolition and raised concerns about preserving local heritage.
Witnesses described the blaze as intense, with sparks seen and heat registered at a distance. Live footage taken by local news outlets showed the building fully engulfed in fire. Firefighters from a number of departments fought the fire for over three hours to get it under control. Their efforts prevented the fire from spreading to adjacent structures. The fire reminded people of the challenges associated with combating fires in large, vacant structures.
Victory Mill blaze sparks preservation Clash
Local officials, including Saratoga County Sheriff Michael Zurlo and Victory Mayor Corey Helwig, were aware of the devastating impact the fire had on the community. They referred to the significance of the historic mill and the psychological loss of its burning. Despite the tragedy, hopes are that the redevelopment plans will be beneficial for the area. The property owner, Riverview Realty LLC, will oversee the demolition and construction process afterward. The site's future is still being argued upon by the community.
Firefighters work to contain the flames engulfing the historic Victory Mill. Photo: Tri-County Fire Videos
The Victory Mill fire serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of old buildings, especially those that are vacant. It underscores the need to take protective measures when securing these types of structures from acts of vandalism and accidental destruction. Even as investigations are ongoing, the community mourns the loss of a landmark but also hopes for the potentialities that redevelopment can bring. The case has elicited discussions regarding how to balance historical preservation with the needs of modern development.
