Posted on: March 22, 2025 11:25 AM

Share : Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp

Two arrested for manslaughter following fatal fire in Dutchess county

The New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation (SP Poughkeepsie), in conjunction with the Dutchess County District Attorney’s Office, has arrested Meredith Darcy, 55, and Dennis Darcy, 57, both of Hastings-on-Hudson, on two counts of Manslaughter in the 2nd degree (Class C felony) each.

The charges stem from a fatal structure fire on October 14, 2024, at a residence on Clinton Hollow Road in the Town of Clinton. The New York State Police, along with the East Clinton Fire Department and the Dutchess County Fire Investigation Division, responded to reports of a fire with entrapment. Four individuals—John E. Hubbard, 40, Shannon K. Hubbard, 35, and their two children, ages 3 and 1, all of Brewster, MA—were transported to area hospitals. Tragically, Shannon K. Hubbard and the 1-year-old child succumbed to injuries sustained in the fire.

A comprehensive investigation determined that the residence, which was being rented by the victims, was not properly equipped with functional smoke detectors, in violation of New York State fire, building, and residential codes. Fire investigators concluded that the blaze originated in the chimney flue and was not intentionally set.

From NYSP