Jacob Bogatin

By Zak Failla From Daily Voice

A 78-year-old man has been arrested and charged with murder after a massive three-alarm fire ripped through a Sterling neighborhood last week, killing a 36-year-old woman, according to the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office.

Sterling resident Jacob Bogatin was taken into custody on Tuesday, Oct. 28, after investigators determined the Oct. 24 fire on Riptide Square was intentionally set, authorities said.

The blaze broke out just after 1 a.m. Friday, Oct. 24, tearing through multiple townhomes as firefighters from across Northern Virginia rushed to the scene. 

Loudoun County Fire and Rescue officials said the flames spread rapidly, causing “multiple structural collapses” that prevented crews from entering the building.

The Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office determined the fire was incendiary in nature and started outside the row of homes.

During the investigation, crews discovered human remains that were later identified as Madelaine Samantha Akers, 36, who lived in one of the townhomes and had been unaccounted for after the fire.

Bogatin was arrested on charges of felony murder and burning or destroying an occupied dwelling. He remains held at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center.

“This fire and loss of life is a tragedy for our community, and we are committed to working together to pursue justice as this investigation continues,” Sheriff Mike Chapman said.

Officials emphasized that the case remains under investigation and additional charges may follow, though it’s believed to be an isolated incident.

"I am extremely saddened by the loss of innocent life, which now appears to be the result of foul play," Supervisor Juli Briskman posted on Facebook.

"I hope for peace for Ms. Akers’ friends and family. I am thankful for the rapid response from our first responders and law enforcement and will be following this case closely."