Meth Fire in Binghamton Leaves Dozens Homeless

2/25/2013 (Updated 7:12:02 PM)

Police say the blaze that has left about 50 people displaced was caused by man who was cooking meth that created an explosion at a Binghamton apartment complex.

36-year-old Daniel Kauchis is charged with Reckless Endangerment in the first degree, and Arson in the fourth degree, both of which are felonies.

Kauchis was able to escape the fire with only minor burns to his leg, face, and hand. But dozens are now homeless, facing uncertain futures.

"I can't say right now. It looks pretty bad though," said Insurance Adjuster, Patrick Dorner.

"I got up and came outside. It really shocked me to see the fire. You know so many people lost, I guess pretty much everything," said neighbor, Michael Smith.

Daniel Kauchis was arraigned in city court and sent to Broome County Jail.