Student charged with setting OU fire out on bond

ATHENS, Ohio (AP) — An Ohio University student accused of starting a fire that damaged several rooms at a dormitory has been released on bond.

Twenty-year-old OU sophomore Nathan D. Cencula is charged with aggravated arson in the fire early Friday that the state fire marshal’s office says caused an estimated $50,000 damage at Brough House. The arrest report says a chair was ignited, starting a fire in a study lounge that spread smoke to other rooms. No one was hurt.

Cencula posted bond on Monday. Court records show he did not enter a plea during an appearance before a judge. Another hearing is set for June 14.

Campus police say Cencula surrendered Saturday afternoon. A message seeking comment was left today at his family’s home in St. Clairsville.