Woman allegedly set fire to house over dispute with boyfriend
PIERCE COUNTY, Wash. — A search is underway for a woman in Pierce County, Washington suspected of setting fire to a home early Friday morning.
According to officials, three people were inside the home at the time of the fire but were able to escape without injuries.
“All the occupants of the home were able to exit the residence before it was completely engulfed. The deputies talked to the residents and learned this incident was related to a domestic dispute between two people who did not live at the home,” said Sgt. Darren Moss with the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department (PCSD).
Moss said the residents had hired a man to fix one of their vehicles and he was staying at the home for a few days.
"This morning, the mechanic's girlfriend came to the home banging on the windows because she was upset the boyfriend was staying at the house," Moss explained. "She threatened to burn down the garage and a few moments later they heard a loud bang. When they came outside the garage was on fire."
Moss said the home as well as a camper and four vehicles were destroyed in the fire.
Pierce County Fire Marshal Ken Rice told KOMO News they have not yet determined what substance was used to start the fire.
Moss said the woman will likely face first-degree arson charges.
"Deputies have identified the female suspect in this incident and are working on locating her," Moss said.
Anyone who has information about the incident or the woman's whereabouts is asked to contact the PCSD or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers 1-800-222-TIPS.
