NEW ROCHELLE, NY (April 6, 2025) — New Rochelle Police uncovered a clandestine drug laboratory while responding to a suspicious fire at the Marriott Residence Inn at New Roc City on Sunday evening.
At approximately 9:19 p.m., officers arrived at 35 LeCount Place at the request of the New Rochelle Fire Department. They found that the hotel’s fire suppression system had activated, controlling a blaze in a room on the 7th floor. The activation caused significant flooding across the entire floor.
During the initial investigation, officers discovered evidence of a drug lab inside the room, including quantities of cocaine and materials consistent with processing cocaine into crack cocaine. New Rochelle Detectives were immediately recalled to identify and locate the individual responsible.
Following a swift investigation, detectives traced leads to a hospital in Queens, where they found the suspect, Pedro Marte, 47, of New York, NY, receiving treatment for burns to his right arm, torso, and foot. Marte was later transferred to another medical facility, where he remains in stable condition.
Marte is currently under arrest and in custody at a New York City hospital. Upon his release, he will face charges under New York State Penal Law, including two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 3rd Degree, a B Felony; Arson in the 4th Degree, an E Felony; Reckless Endangerment in the 1st Degree, a D Felony; and Criminal Mischief in the 4th Degree, an A Misdemeanor.
Authorities believe the fire was likely sparked by Marte’s illicit activities in the hotel room, though the exact cause is still under investigation. The New Rochelle Police Department encourages anyone with information to contact their non-emergency line at (914) 654-2300 or anonymously at 914-632-COPS. The investigation remains ongoing.
