Law enforcement report 34-year-old man arrested as suspect
ROSEVILLE- Sunday evening, the Roseville Fire Department responded to a structure fire at The Gathering Inn, located at 201 Berkeley Avenue where an active fire damaged one story of the facility.
Just before 11:30 p.m. Sunday Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke emanating from a rear two-story building, which serves as an office and laundry area.
The fire was reportedly contained to the second floor of the structure, which is reportedly used by staff and not by the guests. According to the Roseville Fire Department, the resource area frequented by patrons was unaffected by the flames. No guests or employees were present at the facility at the time of the incident, and no injuries have been reported.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Although the fire was contained, utilities to the facility have been temporarily shut off. The Gathering Inn is collaborating with local faith organizations to arrange a temporary location for its patrons during daytime program hours.
“The Roseville Fire Department responded quickly, but there was extensive damage to the office area on the second floor of the building. We are making plans for our guests to be served at other locations during the day and to continue regular operations at local churches at night,” reads a statement released by The Gathering Inn Monday morning. “We will provide more information as it becomes available. Please keep our employees and guests, which include children and their parents, in your prayers.”
After reviewing surveillance videos and evaluating evidence, officials announced that Matthew Brandon, 34 had been arrested on suspicion of arson connected to the blaze. No further information is being shared regarding the suspect at this time.
The Gathering Inn is a multifaceted organization with multiple locations that serves over 300 individuals every day throughout Placer County and the Sacramento region. Since 2004, the organization has served countless individuals experiencing homelessness aiming to welcome new beginnings and transform lives.
Photos: Roseville Fire
This article updated with additional information at 3:20 p.m. Sept. 9, 2024