The Waterbury Times|Crime Desk|Published Feb 27, 2026

WATERBURY, CT — Background Recap — As the city continues to react to the arrest of 33‑year‑old Scott Basile in connection with Thursday’s North Main Street shooting, many residents are remembering a major arson case in Waterbury from 2018 that made headlines and raised public safety concerns at the time.

What Happened in 2018

In 2018, police investigated a string of deliberate fires in Waterbury neighborhoods. The incidents spanned multiple locations and drew significant attention from both residents and law enforcement due to their pattern and potential danger to people and property.

After months of investigation, authorities identified and charged Scott Basile in connection with multiple fire‑related incidents, including an attempt to set a fire at a local business.

Charges and Conviction

Basile was arrested and charged with first‑degree arson and related offenses. Prosecutors presented evidence tying him to the fires, and the case moved through the Connecticut court system.

He ultimately pleaded guilty to attempted first‑degree arson — meaning the court found there was intent and action toward setting the fires, even if they did not fully develop.

Sentence and Parole

In 2018, Basile was sentenced to six years in state prison for the arson conviction. Under Connecticut law, sentences are served with the possibility of parole, and after completing his prison term, he was released under parole supervision — meaning a parole officer and the state Department of Correction continue to monitor his compliance with conditions of release.

Community Impact in 2018

At the time of the arson investigation:

• Neighbors expressed fear and frustration as multiple fires occurred in residential and commercial areas.
• Police increased patrols and community outreach to help residents feel safe.
• Local officials emphasized the need for cooperation between the public and law enforcement to catch the person responsible.

Why This History Matters Now

This background is important context for residents because potentially the same individual — now 33 and currently on parole — was arrested this week following a shooting incident on North Main Street. While investigators have not said the prior arson case and the recent shooting are connected beyond the history of the suspect, the earlier case remains part of how the community remembers Basile.

BREAKING UPDATE: Arrest Made in North Main Street Shooting Incident

Ongoing Questions

Authorities have confirmed Basile’s conviction and parole status from the earlier case, and police continue to investigate the shooting incident. Residents who lived through the arson series may recall the fear and disruption it caused, and this latest arrest has renewed community interest in how past and present events relate.

Anyone with information about the recent shooting or questions about community safety can contact the Waterbury Police Detective Bureau.

Waterbury Crime & Courts