SALT POINT, NY – A Westchester County couple is facing manslaughter charges following a tragic fire at their Airbnb property in Dutchess County, which resulted in the deaths of a Massachusetts teacher and her daughter. The incident has raised serious concerns about safety standards in short-term rental properties.
The victims, Shannon Hubbard and her daughter, Maggie, were laid to rest in a somber October funeral on Cape Cod. Their weekend getaway to Salt Point turned fatal when the rental home caught fire. Authorities have now charged the homeowners, Dennis and Meredith Darcy, with manslaughter, citing grave safety oversights.
Investigators in Dutchess County allege that the Darcys misrepresented their property by listing it with a smoke alarm, which was not present. Additionally, the home reportedly lacked the necessary local permit, which mandates smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as fire extinguishers on each floor.
Legal expert Mayo Bartlett emphasized the importance of compliance with safety regulations for property owners involved in short-term rentals. “Failure to adhere to these regulations not only endangers lives but also exposes owners to potential criminal liability,” Bartlett noted.
The absence of essential safety devices like smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can have dire consequences. “These devices save lives by providing early warnings, allowing occupants to evacuate swiftly,” Bartlett added.
The Dutchess County District Attorney’s office has accused the Darcys of willfully ignoring the significant risk of death due to the absence of detectors in their rental property. The couple’s attorney, however, stated that they are devastated by the incident and dispute the manslaughter charges.
The case has sparked a broader discussion on the responsibilities of Airbnb hosts and the critical importance of adhering to safety standards to prevent such tragedies in the future. The Darcys’ legal battle is set to unfold as the community grapples with the profound loss of life.
As the investigation continues, this incident serves as a stark reminder for both property owners and renters to prioritize safety measures in short-term accommodations.