Former Northville firefighter convicted of arson loses appeal

PLYMOUTH TOWNSHIP, Mich. – The Michigan Court of Appeals affirmed the conviction of a former firefighter who intentionally burned down a home in 2019.

Patrick Nolan, 44, was convicted in 2023 and sentenced to seven to 20 years for his role in the 2019 arson.

Plymouth Township police and fire departments were called to the house fire on Jan. 1, 2019. Authorities stated that Nolan owned the home and attempted to file an insurance claim on the loss, having started the fire himself for this purpose.

According to investigators, the fire started in three separate unconnected areas: the master bedroom, basement storage room and the common hall at the top of the basement stairs.

The investigation into the fire led to stalking and firearm charges for Nolan.

On Monday, June 9, 2025, the Michigan Court of Appeals affirmed Nolan’s conviction.