Troy man accused of setting fire to veterans building

Troy man accused of setting fire to veterans building

Troy man accused of setting fire to veterans building

A Troy man is accused of setting a fire outside of the Veterans of Lansingburgh Club on Monday evening.

Michael J. Christiansen, 43, allegedly set fire to the outside of the building at 777 1st Ave. in Troy.

Firefighters quickly put out the fire, limiting damage.

Christiansen was quickly identified as a suspect after police spoke with concerned citizens and the membership and staff of the veterans’ organization, police said.

Police found Christiansen nearby and arrested him.

Christiansen was charged with third-degree arson and possession of an open container of alcoholic beverage. He was scheduled to be arraigned Tuesday morning in Troy City Court.

Police are still investigating a motive.