Grand Jury Indicts Rochester Man for 2004 Fatal Arson
Timothy Kuhn faces a federal charge of arson resulting in death for a fire that claimed a life two decades ago.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Sex Crimes
A federal grand jury has indicted 66-year-old Timothy Kuhn on a charge of arson resulting in death for a fire that occurred at 17 Yates St. in Rochester. The suspect is accused of intentionally setting fire to the property shortly after midnight.
Why it matters
The federal indictment follows the dismissal of prior state-level murder and arson charges against Kuhn, which were dropped in 2025 due to speedy trial violations.
Timothy Kuhn was arraigned in the Northern District of Florida on Oct. 19, 2026. He is now awaiting transfer to the Western District of New York to face the federal charge.
The players
Timothy Kuhn
He is a 66-year-old suspect recently indicted on federal arson charges.
Savannah Streber
She was the individual who died during the fire at 17 Yates St.
The details
Prosecutors allege that Kuhn set fire to the back porch of the residence in Rochester on Feb. 28, 2004. Savannah Streber died in the fire, leading to a long-running legal process that recently shifted from state to federal jurisdiction.
Timeline
Feb. 28, 2004: A fire occurred at 17 Yates St. in Rochester.
2005: An initial investigation recordkeeping issue occurred.
October 2025: A state Supreme Court judge dismissed prior charges against Kuhn.
Oct. 19, 2026: A federal grand jury indicted Kuhn.
Legal Context
The federal prosecution follows the dismissal of previous state charges based on the Sixth Amendment's right to a speedy trial. This highlights how jurisdictional shifts can occur when state-level proceedings are halted by procedural or constitutional challenges.
The transition of this case to federal court ensures that the investigation into the 2004 fatal fire remains active. Residents should be aware that the legal process regarding the incident on Yates St. is now being handled by federal authorities.
The takeaway
This case demonstrates how federal indictments can follow the dismissal of state charges, reviving long-standing investigations. It serves as a reminder that the expiration of a state-level speedy trial window does not always preclude federal prosecution for the same underlying events.
What happens next
Timothy Kuhn is expected to be returned to the Western District of New York for further federal court proceedings.
Further reading
For more information on legal proceedings in the area, visit the Rochester Sex Crimes section.
