LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — An elderly northeast valley woman whose home was set on fire is receiving repairs and safety upgrades after months of stalking incidents targeting her property.
FOX5 previously reported on Pauline’s encounters with a stalker outside her home. Her family said the incidents began last summer, when someone shot small yellow balls through a window. In November, a masked individual spray-painted the word “Warning” on the home. After the new year, surveillance video showed a man throwing liquid on the house and setting it on fire.
READ MORE: Surveillance footage shows suspected stalking, arson targeting home of elderly woman
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police identified that man as Russell McLaren. He faces aggravated stalking with a deadly weapon for the November incident and arson for the January fire, among other charges.
Crews with Rebuilding Together Southern Nevada have spent the past several weeks repairing damage to Pauline’s home. Work has included installing concrete ramps, replacing windows and doors, and addressing vandalism.
The crew also added safety features inside the home — new flooring, grab bars and lighting — to help Pauline move around more safely.
Students from Gonzaga University joined the effort Saturday to complete work not covered by the main project, including painting the exterior of the home and cleaning up the yard.
“These are things that our client hasn’t been able to do because she’s getting older,” said Bob Cleveland, CEO of Rebuilding Together Southern Nevada. “And for the last six months, she’s basically lived in fear of going outside.”
“It’s just a blessing to see these people come from out of state — not out of town, out of state — come together and work on a stranger’s home because they want to do something good for the community,” Cleveland said.
The effort drew notice from those living nearby as well.
“A couple of the neighbors walked by and thanked us for everything we’re doing,” Cleveland said. “They called her mom… and they said, ‘Thanks for helping mama out.’”
Cleveland said Pauline still does not feel comfortable leaving her house. He said he hopes a safer home and support from strangers and neighbors helps Pauline heal.
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