The two individuals charged in connection with a significant apartment fire in November 2023 have entered pleas of not guilty to arson charges. One of the accused did not attend the court arraignment on Friday. Robert Stokes and Charnelle Gunn face indictments on charges of second-degree arson related to the fire at the Reserve at LaVista Walk apartments, located in northeast Atlanta. Authorities claim the suspects ignited fireworks on the roof, triggering a conflagration that displaced hundreds of residents from their homes.
Charnelle Gunn opted to waive her right to an arraignment and submitted a not guilty plea through her attorney. In contrast, Robert Stokes appeared remotely from North Carolina via Zoom, despite the requirement for an in-person appearance. Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee queried his attorney, Joe Brown, regarding Stokes’ absence from the courtroom.
Brown explained that his client did not receive a notification to appear in person, although his residence remains unchanged. Judge McAfee emphasized the importance of Stokes attending future court dates in person, cautioning that failure to do so may impact his eligibility for bond release.
The fire necessitated the response of over 80 firefighters and resulted in the displacement of 28 residents. Seventeen individuals received treatment for smoke inhalation and minor injuries. The adjacent road remained closed for several months, and the damage led to the building’s demolition. Both defendants have been released on bond, with Stokes acknowledging the need for his presence at subsequent court hearings.
Currently, no further court dates or trial schedules have been established.