Rochester, NY - The woman accused of starting a fire in February that killed four of her children has accepted a plea deal.
Bobbie Kugler pled guilty to four counts of second degree manslaughter, three counts of second degree assault, and one count of arson in court Friday. All the charges are felonies.
Kugler had been facing murder charges stemming from the February 18 fire on Grape Street. The fire killed 14-year-old Gage Reavey, 13-year-old Greg Kugler, 12-year-old Kandee Kugler and six-year-old Kaiden Kugler.
Two of the children’s friends and one of Kugler’s friends were injured but survived the fire.
In court, Kugler she admitted to starting the fire by lighting photos and incense and throwing them on a dresser filled with debris. She also admitted to drinking four to five 40 oz. bottles of malt liquor and taking three Ambien pills the night of the fire.
In court, Kugler cried uncontrollably as the judge asked her several questions about her actions leading up to the fire.
Under the plea deal, Kugler could serve seven to 15 years in prison.
Rochester’s Fire Chief, Salvatore Mitrano III, released a statement following Kugler’s plea.
“The loss of 4 young members of our community on February 18th 2012 had a profound impact on many members of the Rochester Community as well as members of the Rochester Fire Department. Although the heartbreak can never fully be healed, I hope that today’s proceedings will bring some solace to those affected.”
Kugler will be sentenced January 22.
