Man Who Started Condo Fire Sentenced To 160 Years
BRIGHTON, Colo. (CBS4)- The man who started the fire that destroyed a condominium complex in Thornton last March was sentenced to 160 years in prison. Martin Espinoza was convicted of multiple counts of attempted first-degree murder and arson in the fire.
Flames engulfed the Corona Village Condominium complex at 8760 Corona Street. Eighteen units in two buildings were destroyed on March 6, 2014. Two residents and two firefighters were injured in the fire and several residents lost their pets in the fire.
A jury in Adams County convicted Espinoza, 22, of 10 counts of attempted first-degree murder, 23 counts of first-degree arson, three counts of third-degree assault and 10 counts of reckless endangerment.
Deputy District Attorney Tyler Sande told the court that Espinoza has never taken responsibility for his actions. "There is no remorse. Ten people almost lost their lives in this fire. If this had taken place at night, it could have been far worse."
The judge sentenced Espinoza to 16 years in prison on 10 counts of attempted first-degree murder which totals 160 years. The sentencing for the other charges will be served concurrently with the 160 year sentence because the judge said Espinoza will not be eligible for parole for the rest of his natural life.
