Woman sentenced for starting Atlanta apartment fire that forced mass evacuation
Charnelle Gunn, 27, was one of two individuals arrested following a significant fire at the Reserve at LaVista Walk apartments in November 2023. The fire, which started on the roof, forced the evacuation of over 100 residents and required the assistance of more than 80 firefighters to control the blaze engulfing a four-story building. Gunn, alongside a male accomplice, reportedly ignited the fire while setting off fireworks from the roof. As a result of her actions, Gunn has been sentenced to 10 years of probation. In addition to the probation, she is facing charges related to the incident, including property damage and criminal mischief. The incident has raised concerns about safety regulations in apartment complexes, especially regarding the use of fireworks in residential areas. Authorities have emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of fire safety standards to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The community is still recovering from the aftermath of the fire, with many residents displaced and seeking assistance.
