Local woman faces numerous charges after setting fire to a structure

Last Updated on December 16, 2021 2:58 pm

A local woman is facing a number of charges after she was found setting fire to a structure.

At 7:05 pm on Wednesday night, fire departments from Deep Gap, Stewart Simmons, Boone, Todd, Watauga Medics, Watauga Fire Marshal’s Office, and Watauga County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to 257 SPI Road in Deep Gap for a residential structure fire, according to a report from the Sheriff's Office.  

The first arriving Deputy, located a female with a bottle of lighter fluid and a lighter and actively setting fire. She was detained immediately, according to the report.

Fire units found the fire had been mostly extinguished by Watauga Sheriff’s Office deputies.  No injuries were reported. There was minor damage to the structure. The Fire was found to be incendiary in nature. 

​Watauga County Sheriff’s Office Investigator was called to the scene and met with the Fire Marshal to begin their investigation. Paulina Chakmakis, age 30, was taken into custody. Ms. Chakmakis refused to speak with Investigators. She lives in the neighborhood, according to the report.

Ms. Chakmakis was charged with, first degree arson, exposing children to fire, child abuse, damage to property, and two counts of resist, delay and obstruct public officer. She was taken before the Magistrate and received a $100,000 secured bond.