A Columbus, Ohio woman is facing serious felony charges after police say she set her own apartment on fire — with her four young children inside.
What Happened
Hawa Hassan, 30, was arrested Saturday after witnesses reported a fire at her apartment in the Hilltop area of Columbus. Neighbors at the scene found her four children outside, who told them their mother had threatened their lives before starting the fire.
What the Children Said
According to court documents, the children told neighbors that Hassan used a lighter to ignite a fire in the bedroom while telling them she was “going to kill them all.”
Hassan Admitted to Starting the Fire
When Columbus Division of Police officers arrived and spoke to Hassan at the scene, she allegedly admitted to setting the fire herself.
Children Safe — Now in Custody
All four children escaped the apartment without injuries. They are currently in the custody of Franklin County Children Services.
Charges Filed
Hassan now faces:
- Aggravated Arson — felony charge
- Assault — misdemeanor
- Domestic Violence by Assault — misdemeanor
Current Status
Hassan is being held at Franklin County Jail without bond. Her next court date is scheduled for May 4.
The apartment complex, located near a middle school in Columbus’s Hilltop neighborhood, showed visible fire damage on the outside of the building.
— Coverage by thecmeaglet.com
