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A Columbia County teenager, charged with arson and murder in connection with a deadly house fire, has been ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation. The evaluation will determine if the 16-year-old is competent to stand trial. The fire, which occurred in June 2024 in Livingston, resulted in the death of 58-year-old Edmund Metz, the girl's father.
The teenager, whose name is withheld due to her age, was charged with second-degree murder and first-degree arson. She pleaded not guilty during a court appearance in July 2024. The fire took place at a secondary residence on Route 9, which Mr. Metz rented. Firefighters extinguished the blaze within 15 minutes, but Mr. Metz was unable to escape and died in the fire, according to State Police Troop K Public Information Officer Aaron J. Hicks.
Prosecutors have requested the mental health evaluation to assess the teen's ability to participate in her defense. Her next court appearance is scheduled for May 7. The case has garnered significant attention, with the community awaiting the outcome of the evaluation and potential trial.
The investigation into the motive behind the alleged arson is ongoing, with police still seeking to determine the reasons behind the tragic incident. The fire has left the local community in shock, as they await further developments in the case.