
In September 2024, the flames that engulfed a home in the 33400 block of 14th Street claimed the life of a 66-year-old man despite emergency responders' efforts to save him. Transported to a local hospital, the victim succumbed to his injuries.
Investigations into the fire led to the arrest of Christopher Shawn Schwenk, 33, a resident of the same city. According to Hoodline, after the initial chaos, a 57-year-old female was also briefly taken into custody in connection with the fire but was subsequently released. The focus, however, remained on Schwenk, who was already caught in the grips of the justice system for separate, unrelated charges.
Recently, the Union City Police Department provided an update through a social media post that Schwenk has been formally charged with involuntary manslaughter. As per the Union City Police Department's post, the charge has come in light of a "careful analysis of evidence," including witness statements and forensic findings.
Schwenk awaits a formal arraignment, during which he will confront the chance to enter a plea. Detective Bedford invites those informed on matters about the fire to come forward, providing a phone number and email for contact. Anonymous tips can be directed to 510-675-5207 or emailed to [email protected].