2 men arrested for allegedly starting brush fire in Smithfield

SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WLNE) — Two men from Providence were arrested after officials said they were allegedly attempting to light a piece of paper on fire, causing a brush fire to start in Smithfield.

25-year-old Axel Bandoma and 23-year-old Assan Faye were arrested and charged with 6th degree arson after a brush fire started at Fidelity Investments back on November 8.

According to officials, the fire allegedly started when the two attempted a photo shoot involving lighting a piece of paper on fire.

Both men were arraigned, and released.

Their next court date is set for February of 2025.

The incident is still under investigation by the RI Attorney General’s Office.