Two Arrested for Arson in Everett, Newport Fires

Joseph Smiley, a 26-year-old transient man, was arrested for allegedly setting a fire that destroyed a home under construction in Everett early Wednesday morning. Surveillance footage reportedly shows Smiley inside the building just before it erupted in flames, leading to extensive damage to nearby properties. This incident marks Smiley's 34th arrest, and he has a history of felony convictions. He admitted to having a lighter at the construction site but denied entering the home, despite the video evidence. Firefighters responded quickly, extinguishing the blaze within 20 minutes, and no injuries were reported. The main structure is considered a total loss, with several other homes sustaining damage.