May 9, 2025
Brooklyn, NY – The safety of Brooklyn residents is a top priority, and thanks to the diligent work of the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) Bureau of Fire Investigation, a dangerous individual connected to multiple arson fires in NYCHA housing has been apprehended. FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker announced the arrest of Unique Cherry, 25, in connection with three separate arson incidents that plagued Brooklyn neighborhoods.

"This investigation demonstrates the outstanding work of the FDNY's Bureau of Fire Investigation," stated Fire Commissioner Tucker. "Arson is a serious crime. It is extremely reckless and shows a complete disregard for the lives and safety of others. I commend our Fire Marshals' work in apprehending this dangerous individual."

Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the severity of the alleged crimes. "This defendant allegedly started three separate fires, putting himself and many other people in danger. I commend the FDNY Fire Marshals for their thorough investigation that allowed my office to bring criminal charges. We will now seek to hold this defendant accountable and continue to work with all law enforcement partners to keep Brooklyn residents safe."

The Investigation Unravels

The extensive investigation by FDNY Fire Marshals began on January 26, 2025, following a fire at a first-floor apartment at 1430 Bergen Street in Brooklyn. While Firefighters quickly brought the blaze under control, Fire Marshals on the scene discovered a disturbing pattern: 12 distinct fires had been intentionally set within the apartment.

Their thorough investigation quickly identified Unique Cherry as a suspect, revealing his connection to other suspicious fire incidents. This crucial breakthrough led to his arrest on May 6, 2025, by FDNY Fire Marshals, who then transported him to the NYPD's 77th Precinct for processing.

Confessions Shed Light on Multiple Incidents

During interrogation, Fire Marshals secured a detailed confession from Cherry regarding the 1430 Bergen Street incident. Further questioning led to confessions for two additional fires previously deemed incendiary by other Fire Marshals:

• January 20, 2025 – 162 Troy Ave, Brooklyn
• December 15, 2024 – 1191 Park Place, Brooklyn

Charges Filed Against Suspect

Unique Cherry faces serious charges for his alleged actions, including:

• Three counts of arson in the second degree
• Three counts of criminal mischief in the third degree
• Three counts of reckless endangerment in the second degree
• Three counts of criminal mischief in the fourth degree

The Brooklyn District Attorney's Office will be prosecuting the case, aiming to hold the defendant accountable for endangering the lives and safety of Brooklyn residents.

This arrest serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication and expertise of the FDNY Fire Marshals and their commitment to keeping our communities safe from the devastating impact of arson.