Husband, wife from Hastings-on-Hudson arrested in fatal fire investigation

CLINTON — The New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation (SP Poughkeepsie) and the Dutchess County District Attorney’s Office have announced the arrest of Meredith Darcy, 55, and Dennis Darcy, 57, both of Hastings-on-Hudson.

The couple has been charged with two counts of manslaughter in the 2nd degree, a Class C felony.

These charges are related to a structure fire on Oct. 14, 2024, in the Town of Clinton, which resulted in the deaths of Shannon K. Hubbard and her 1-year-old child.

Authorities responded to the fire on Clinton Hollow Road, with the East Clinton Fire Department and the Dutchess County Fire Investigation Division assisting.

Four victims, all residents of Brewster, had been transported to area hospitals due to injuries sustained in the fire.

Investigations revealed that the rented residence lacked functional smoke detectors, breaching state safety codes.

Fire officials concluded the fire was accidental, originating in the chimney flue.

Judge Michael Hayes set the defendants’ bail at $50,000 cash or a $100,000 secured bond, or a $200,000 partially secured bond.

Meredith and Dennis Darcy are scheduled to appear in court again on April 7.