Mainers Charged for Car Fire Suspected to Be Insurance Fraud

Two Mainers are facing charges after a car fire in Steuben that's suspected to have been insurance fraud.

Maine Officials Say the Latest 2 Suspects are From Ellsworth

The latest suspects arrested in connection with the vehicle fire are:

• William Smeal, 38, of Ellsworth
• Taylor Keene, 37, of Ellsworth

Both people are charged with arson, criminal conspiracy, and criminal attempt (Class C insurance deception)

A Vehicle Fire in Steuben Led to a Total of Three Arrests

Maine's Fire Marshal says the charges stem from a motor vehicle fire on October 13, 2024 on Pinkham Bay Bridge Road in Steuben. The fire was determined to be arson and the initial investigation led authorities to one arrest. Cameron Brown, 30, of Steuben, was located shortly after the incident. Brown was charged with arson and theft and taken to the Hancock County Jail.

The continued investigation led officials to Smeal and Keene, who were arrested at the home in Ellsworth. Keene was identified as the owner of the vehicle involved in the October fire. Both Smeal and Keene were transported to the Hancock County Jail.

Maine Fire Marshal's Office is Asking for Information About the Incident

The State Fire Marshal is asking anyone with additional information to contact their office at 207-626-3870.

We'll update this story as more details become available.