Three Inmates Charged with Fire-Related Crimes at Eastern Correctional Institute
Somerset County, MD - On March 19, 2026, criminal summonses were served to three inmates at the Eastern Correctional Institute in Westover, Maryland. The charges follow three separate fire-related incidents that occurred at the facility during February and March of 2026. The Office of the State Fire Marshal was requested to investigate each incident.
Matthew Moore, 33, is accused of starting a fire in his cell on February 24, 2026. Investigators determined the fire was the result of arson. Consequently, Deputy State Fire Marshals applied for a criminal summons charging Moore with first-degree arson, second-degree malicious burning, and malicious destruction of property. If convicted of all charges, Moore faces a maximum penalty of 31 years and eight months of incarceration and up to $51,000 in fines.
Dylan Davin, 29, is accused of igniting his food tray on March 19, 2026. He allegedly pushed the burning tray out of his cell and into the tier hallway. The investigation determined the fire was maliciously set. Davin was charged with second-degree malicious burning. A conviction could result in a maximum penalty of 18 months of incarceration and up to $500 in fines.
River Donovan, 28, is accused of threatening to burn the prison and his cellmate on March 11, 2026. He allegedly ignited numerous combustible materials inside his cell, including a mattress. The fire subsequently spread to a wooden barrier placed over his door. The incident was investigated and ruled as arson. Donovan faces charges of first-degree arson, second-degree malicious burning, malicious destruction of property, and threat of arson. The maximum penalty for these charges is 40 years and eight months of incarceration and up to $61,000 in fines.
All three inmates were served with their summonses at the Eastern Correctional Institute without incident.
Disclosure: All individuals mentioned in this article are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Eastern Shore Undercover® does not express or imply any opinion regarding the incident reported.
