SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — A tourist from Missouri, identified as Danielle Bertothy, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in connection with the arson of a hotel and several businesses in southwestern Puerto Rico earlier this month. Her actions have drawn significant attention and outrage, highlighting a growing concern over unruly behavior among visitors in this U.S. territory.
The 36-year-old resident of St. Peters, Missouri, faces serious arson charges, and she is set to appear in court in her home state shortly. The U.S. Department of Justice confirmed her arrest and emphasized the gravity of the situation. W. Stephen Muldrow, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico, remarked on the potential dangers of Bertothy’s actions, stating that she would be held liable for the substantial damage and risk posed to the community.
Details surrounding the case revealed that the fire, which occurred on January 2, ignited outrage among local residents. The incident caused extensive damage in Cabo Rojo, a coastal town popular with both tourists and locals. It destroyed a bar, a restaurant, a hotel, and a retail store, stirring anger among business owners and community members. Ángel Luis Marrero Negrón, the owner of the affected property, expressed his emotional reaction upon learning of the indictment, emphasizing that tourists should not feel entitled to harm local livelihoods.
Negrón criticized the actions of the Puerto Rican police, who he claimed failed to act appropriately when they were called to address Bertothy’s alleged harassment of customers prior to the fire being set. He pointed out that police had been contacted on two occasions regarding her behavior. After the incident, Bertothy departed Puerto Rico, prompting federal authorities to launch an investigation, which has included gathering evidence from the mainland. Local residents shared images and videos online, demanding accountability for her actions.
Financially, Negrón estimated damages from the fire to be around half a million dollars, but he remains hopeful about rebuilding. He also raised concerns regarding the impact on employment, as many workers lost their jobs due to the destruction of the businesses. Notably, the Luichy’s Seaside Hotel at Combate Beach had been nearly fully booked with 31 guests present at the time the fire started.
If found guilty, Bertothy could face a sentence ranging from five to 20 years behind bars, as the case continues to unfold and capture the attention of both local and federal authorities. The incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between tourism and community well-being in Puerto Rico.
