Guest Charged with Arson in Fire at Hotel Near Binghamton

A man who was staying at a Broome County hotel faces felony charges following a blaze that forced several other guests to flee.

Authorities say 45-year-old Thomas Sutton of Sidney was arrested Tuesday in connection with the fire at the Econo Lodge Inn and Suites Hotel in the Town of Dickinson.

Sutton was charged with arson and reckless endangerment. He also was charged with criminal mischief and obstructing governmental administration.

The fire at the hotel at 690 Old Front Street was reported around 6 p.m. July 3.

Broome County sheriff's deputies spotted smoke and flames coming from a room. While evacuating the hotel, deputies encountered Sutton, who was the occupant of the room where the blaze originated. He was restrained after he ignored orders to stay out of the building.

The fire was contained to a single room but the hotel's second floor sustained heavy smoke damage. No injuries were reported due to the blaze.

Sutton was taken to Binghamton General Hospital for treatment of injuries sustained before the fire.

Investigators say Sutton was taken into custody Tuesday after he was released from the hospital.

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.