Arson arrest made in Red Bay
By Staff
Melissa Cason
RED BAY – A week and a half after a house in Red Bay was declared a total loss due to an intentionally set fire, authorities have one of the people believed to be responsible in custody.
Police Chief Pat Creel said Jordan Jones, 18, of 295 10th Street NE in Red Bay, was arrested Wednesday, and charged with second-degree arson and first-degree criminal mischief.
"We do expect to make other arrests in this case in the coming days," Creel said.
The house, located at 501 10th Street SE in Red Bay, was burned on Aug. 10. Authorities were called to the scene around 7 p.m., but the house was already gone, and there was little to be done.
"When the fire department got to the scene, there was very little to be done," Creel said.
"It was ruled a total loss to the homeowner."
The house was unoccupied at the time of the blaze but the house was not considered abandoned.
Creel said the public had a great deal to do with the case being solved so quickly.
"To give credit where it is due, both Belue officers did a great job at the scene, and Eddie Chandler did a great job following up after the fire," Creel said.
"But, the cooperation from the public was invaluable to this investigation."
Creel said his department received numerous tips and other leads from the public.
According to the Alabama Criminal Code, second-degree arson is a Class B felony, which is carries a two to 20 years in prison upon conviction.
Jones remains in the Red Bay City Jail awaiting a bond hearing.
Creel said other charges on Jones are pending.