State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced today that Anthony Cleaver Mason, 65, of Leonardtown, Maryland, was convicted of assault, arson, and reckless endangerment in connection with a fire that displaced several motel guests and caused extensive damage to a California, Maryland motel.

On June 3, 2024, deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported disturbance at a motel on Three Notch Road. Upon arrival, deputies discovered that Mason had barricaded himself inside a third-floor room, assaulted an occupant of the room, and started a fire. As the fire spread, deputies swiftly activated the fire alarm and began evacuating the building.

Firefighters from multiple departments responded to battle the blaze. Several victims suffered injuries and others lost personal property to the fire.

The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office’s investigation revealed that Mason deliberately set the fire, causing over $750,000 in damage.

“The Defendant’s dangerous actions put dozens of lives at risk, resulting in serious injuries and devastating property loss,” said State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling. “Our office is committed to prosecuting those who recklessly put our community in danger.”

Mason remains held without bond pending a sentencing hearing. He faces a maximum sentence of 45 years in prison.

Senior Assistant State’s Attorneys Alena Moiser and Donna Pettersen prosecuted the case on behalf of the citizens of St. Mary’s County.

The Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal led the investigation, with assistance from Sergeant James Bare, Devin Absher, and David Katulich of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office.

The Honorable Amy Lorenzini presided over the case.