Former Bradford firefighter charged with arson in series of fires

BRADFORD — New Hampshire authorities have arrested a former Bradford firefighter on multiple arson charges following a series of fires in the towns of Bradford and Warner.

Nathan Nichols, 19, of Weare, was taken into custody on Dec. 27 on five counts of felony-level arson, according to a joint statement from State Fire Marshal Sean P.

Toomey, Bradford Police Chief Edward Shaughnessy, and Bradford Fire Chief Bryan Nowell.

The fires, which included two structure fires, occurred between May and September.

Nichols, who previously served with the Bradford Fire Department, was released on personal recognizance bail.

His arraignment is scheduled for Feb. 1 at the Merrimack County Superior Court.

The investigation, which remains active, has been a collaborative effort between the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Bradford Police Department, and the Bradford Fire Department.

Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the fires or other incidents to contact the NH State Fire Marshal’s Office at (603) 223-4289.

Officials have stated that no additional information will be released at this time as the investigation continues.