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Man charged with arson after allegedly setting railroad tracks on fire

Michael Benitez, 33, has been charged with arson of property used in interstate commerce.

BUFFALO, N.Y. — A Buffalo man faces a mandatory minimum of five years behind bars for allegedly setting railroad tracks on fire.

Michael Benitez, 33, has been charged with arson of property used in interstate commerce.

According to an FBI investigation, it the fire happened in June in the Village of Farnham. Burning tires caused the railroad tracks to catch on fire and a video shows a man leaving the area.

Police said they believe that man is Benitez.

"While the fire department responded, trains were being held until the fire, the source of which was several tires burning, could be extinguished," the U.S. Attorney's Office said Friday in a statement.

Benitez faces a minimum of five years and up to 20 years in prison.

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