BUFFALO, N.Y. – A Buffalo man is now facing federal charges for the arson of the Old Pink Bar.
According to Assistant US Attorney Richard P. Antoine, Burns was at the Old Pink on June 17, 2024, and allegedly had an altercation with another person employed to provide security for the Old Pink.
Investigators say Burns fled the area during the argument and is believed to have warned the security officer “he would return to “burn that bitch down” and “ain’t nobody going to have a job.”
Shortly after the confrontation, the Old Pink caught fire, according to officials.
Investigators said they received video evidence showing a person setting fire to the building. They claim witnesses recognized Burns as the individual in the video.
“Arson is an extremely dangerous crime, endangering lives and property,” said United States Attorney Trini E. Ross in a press release. “Arson has far-reaching consequences, leaving people homeless, unemployed, or both.
The Old Pink’s arson left employees unemployed and destroyed an iconic gathering place in Buffalo. We will not allow such devastation to our community. My office will continue to investigate and prosecute all individuals who conduct arson and other federal crimes that harm the Western District of New York.”
Burns was arraigned in federal court Friday afternoon. He may face up to 20 years in prison if convicted of the federal counts.
According to city officials, the damages are estimated at $1.25 million. Many people who lamented the company were keen to obtain a brick as a memento.