Police arrest two on arson charges in Somersworth mill fire

The fire quickly engulfed the old mill, seen above. Garrett R. Mallock, top, and Gustave Levey were both arrested on Friday. (WCSH-TV image; Police mugshots)

SOMERSWORTH - Two local men have been charged with arson in the Somersworth fire that destroyed the former Great Falls Bleachery/Facemate mill earlier this year.

Gustave Levey, 19, who currently resides at Strafford County Jail, Dover; and Garrett R. Mallock, 19, of 229 Sherwood Glen Trailer Park, Somersworth, were both taken into custody on Friday after a lengthy investigation, Somersworth Police said on Friday.

Both were charged with felony arson and misdemeanor criminal trespass, charges that could put them behind bars as many as eight years.

Police believe the Jan. 7 fire was started in a party type atmosphere but grew out of control resulting in a total loss of the building, which was being rehabilitated. Firefighters responded to the area of 225 Main St. around 8:30 p.m. but were unable to quell what became a spectacular blaze amid a night sky.

Fire crews remained on scene overnight trying to contain the fire, which was a total loss.

Levey, who refused the services of a bail commissioner, will be arraigned in Strafford County Superior Court on Monday, while Mallock was released on personal recognizance with a court date July 5.

Somersworth Police were assisted in the investigation by The State Fire Marshall's Office and The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms.

If anyone has any information about this case they are encouraged to call 692-3131 or the Somersworth Police Crime line at 692-9111.