Arson cases being investigated

Three fires - two in the same house - are being investigated by Benton County Sheriff’s Office detectives, according to Sgt. Brandon Davis.

Davis, with the criminal investigation division with the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, issued a news release Monday concerning the fires at 14645 Wilkerson Road, Pea Ridge, east of the city.

The first fire happened in the early morning hours of Jan. 31.

A residence that was being remodeled was set on fire after a suspect or suspects entered the house. The fire caused fire and smoke damage to the home’s interior, Davis said.

A second fire happened during the early morning hours of Feb. 5 and caused more damage to the home, according to Davis. There is a person of interest at this time andthe investigation will continue.

Another house fire occurred on Sunday, Feb. 17, 2013, at 14985 Gary Fletcher Road. The cause was determined to be suspicious. Benton County Detective Mike Lira interviewed the person suspected of setting the fire. The investigation is on-going, but criminal charges are expected at this time.

Further information will be provided at a later date.

News, Pages 1 on 02/27/2013