The Arson Bomb Squad reports the arrest of a Mineola man for an Arson that occurred on Sunday, September 20, 2026 at 2:38 a.m. in Mineola.

According to Detectives, police and fire departments responded to 125 Lincoln Avenue for a fire in the 3rd floor hallway of a residential apartment building. The defendant, Nolan Gaugler, 34, the resident of apartment B3C, was conducting an unknown chemistry experiment when the mixture reacted violently. The defendant took the mixture and threw it in the hallway igniting a fire that caused damage to the floor and hallway. Residents of the building were temporarily evacuated for their safety. During the investigation, a large quantity of chemicals and laboratory equipment were discovered in the defendant’s apartment, including mixtures that were determined to be unstable and explosive. The hazardous materials were removed from scene to be properly and safely disposed of. The defendant was placed under arrest without incident.

Defendant Nolan Gaugler is charged with Reckless Endangerment 1st degree, Arson 4th degree, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd degree. He will be arraigned on Monday, September 21, 2026 at First District Court, 99 Main Street, Hempstead.