Southampton fire under investigation at home tied to recent burglary and marijuana seizure
Police confirmed the residence was also the scene of an early morning home invasion burglary on Sept. 17.
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An investigation is underway after a late-night fire at a home in Southampton that police say is the same residence involved in a recent home invasion burglary and subsequent drug arrest.
Southampton Town police said the fire broke out at 198 West Neck Road around 11 p.m. Tuesday. Photos of the fire were provided to News 12 by a neighbor who called 911.
Police confirmed the residence was also the scene of an early morning home invasion burglary on Sept. 17.
According to detectives, when officers arrived at the home following the burglary, they found one person suffering from a laceration to the head while all other individuals had fled the scene.
As the investigation progressed, detectives determined the home was not a random criminal target.
Police said they discovered a large and illegal quantity of marijuana in plain sight. After obtaining a search warrant, investigators seized approximately 1,000 pounds of marijuana that had been packaged for sale and distribution.
Police arrested Antonio Velay, 27, of Southampton, on drug charges.
Following the fire, some nearby residents said they were concerned and looking for answers. Several people were seen slowing down as they drove past the property to view the damage.
"I was surprised that this occurred here," said John Stewart, who lives nearby.
Police say it is still too early to determine whether the fire and the Sept. 17 burglary are connected. The investigation remains ongoing.
No one was available for an interview Friday.
News 12 has also reached out to the Southampton Fire Department for comment.
