At least one of the youths accused of starting a devastating fire in the South Okanagan is expecting to plead guilty.

A 16-year-old boy appeared in Penticton Provincial Court Monday to face two counts of arson in connection with a fire at a senior’s assisted living facility in Penticton on April 5.

His court appearance, via video link, was put over and his lawyer says the teen will likely be pleading guilty. His next appearance is scheduled for May 12.

The fire destroyed the Hamlets, a newly built facility on Duncan Street, which was almost ready to open.

The boy, along with a 14-year-old girl and 18-year-old Meagan Willis, were arrested about 20 minutes after the fire started. All three are also charged in connection with an earlier fire at a townhouse complex located near the Hamlets.

All three remain in custody.

Link: Hamlets will be rebuilt