Woman arrested in Schenectady arson that killed 10-year-old girl

Schenectady Police have arrested a 25-year-old woman in an arson that killed a 10-year-old girl last month.

Sarah Moore has been charged with felony murder and arson, police announced today.

According to city officials, Moore started the fire during the early morning hours of June 13th. When firefighters arrived on the scene, they say the house was fully involved.

They won't say how or where it started, but they called the situation "dangerous" and "unbearable."

Officials don't believe Moore meant to kill Avion but they say she did know the girl was home at the time of the fire. Ultimately, Bell died as a result of her injuries, and three firefighters were injured trying to save her life; Captain Doug Faulisi was seriously injured and may be out for up to a year.

Police say the girl's mother was nowhere in sight the night crews were fighting to rescue her. "I think it's safe to say the only people that cared about the welfare of Avion Bell that night were the firefighters that tried so hard to save her life," said DA Bob Carney in a press conference.

If convicted in Schenectady County, Moore faces 25 years to life in prison. But if the case is turned over to federal prosecutors and Moore is convicted on federal charges -- the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms was called in to investigate -- Moore could face the death penalty.

Where the case ultimately ends up will be determined by how quickly the Schenectady DA gets a grand jury on this case.