Woman charged with arson, attempted murder in NC house fire that killed dog

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (WGHP) — A woman is being charged with several counts of attempted murder and arson as the result of a house fire, according to the Winston-Salem Police Department.

At around 6:13 a.m. on Friday, officers came to the 1500 block of East 3rd Street after getting a report of arson. Winston-Salem firefighters also responded to the scene.

Police said that the fire was intentionally set from outside of the house. Five people and a dog were inside when the fire was set.

All five people were able to escape, however, the dog died as a result of the fire.

Investigators identified 57-year-old Mechell Lorraine Smith as the suspect.

Smith is being charged with five counts of attempted murder, first-degree arson and felony cruelty to animals. She is being held without bond.

The investigation is active and ongoing. There is no further information available at this time.