A 30-year-old Ohio woman, Hawa Hassan, has been arrested and charged with felony arson after allegedly setting fire to her apartment in Columbus, Ohio, while threatening to kill her four children. The incident occurred on Saturday, and authorities have since taken Hassan into custody.
The Incident and Arrest
According to court documents obtained by local ABC affiliate WSYX, witnesses reported that Hassan’s four children told neighbors that their mother had threatened to kill them. The children said that Hassan set fire to the apartment’s bedroom while they were inside. Fortunately, the children managed to escape the apartment unharmed.
The court documents also reveal that Hassan allegedly used a lighter to start the fire in the bedroom while telling her children, “I’m going to kill you all.” When officers from the Columbus Division of Police spoke to Hassan at the scene, she reportedly admitted to starting the fire.
No Injuries Reported
Although the fire caused damage to the apartment, no injuries were reported. WSYX reported that the outside of one of the apartments was charred, and the complex is located near a middle school in the Hilltop area of Columbus.
After the incident, Franklin County Children’s Services took custody of all four children. They were reportedly not harmed in the fire and are currently in protective care.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Hassan has been charged with aggravated arson, as well as two misdemeanor charges of assault and domestic violence by assault. She is being held without bond at the Franklin County Jail. Her next court date is scheduled for May 4, 2026.
The case has raised serious concerns about the safety of the children and the potential for similar incidents in the future. The investigation into Hassan’s actions is ongoing, and authorities are working to ensure the safety and well-being of her children.
