- Associated Press - Monday, January 16, 2012

NORWICH, CONN. (AP) - A Connecticut contractor who helped build a house on the ABC reality TV show “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” has been accused of burning down his wood pellet business and charged with arson and other crimes.

Bruce “Bruno” Hayn was arrested by Norwich (NOHR’-wich) police Monday. The 54-year-old from nearby Colchester also is charged with attempted arson, insurance fraud and giving a false statement.

Authorities say the charges stem from an October fire that caused extensive damage at Shur Fire Energy in Norwich, 40 miles southeast of Hartford.

People were interested in these podcasts

Hayn hasn’t returned a message left at his home. It’s unclear if he has a lawyer.

Hayn helped lead volunteers who built a family a home in Voluntown in December 2008 after two family members drowned in a pond and their home was damaged by fire.

Copyright © 2026 The Washington Times, LLC.

Please read our comment policy before commenting.