Woman Accused Of Arson In Fire That Displaced 8 In Manitou Springs

MANITOU SPRINGS, Colo. (CBS4) - Police have arrested a woman for allegedly starting a massive house fire in Manitou Springs.

Eight people were forced out of their home located at 507 Canon Avenue when the fire erupted just after 11:30 a.m. Saturday. Firefighters say the flames spread so quickly that some of the people inside had to jump out of windows to escape.

"Fire shot up and started my shirt on fire, so I just got out of my shirt and I ran into my house to grab my roommate. And we tried to get down to the front door steps and the window exploded and fire flew in the front window," said an emotional John Martin. "I ran back upstairs and I threw my big screen on the floor and we both jumped out the second floor window."

The building was an older house that had been converted into apartments.

Nobody was seriously injured. Timberline Baptist Church opened its doors for the displaced residents who are also being helped by the Red Cross.

The suspect, Nicci Ladawn See, 46, is charged with first-degree arson, criminal mischief, attempted manslaughter, attempted assault, and cruelty to animals.

Her motive for allegedly setting the fire isn't clear.