The Joplin Globe, Joplin, MO

Local News

July 23, 2008

<img src="http://www.joplinglobeonline.com/images/zope/policeandfire.gif" border=0 > Arson suspected in house fire

Arson is suspected in a fire that heavily damaged a man’s home early Wednesday in Joplin, according to fire Chief Gary Trulson.

Trulson said investigators found pieces of a glass container at the scene that may have contained an accelerant used to ignite a fire that started about 4 a.m. at 1710 S. Sergeant Ave. Trulson said the glass shards will be tested for residue to determine what type of accelerant was used.

No injuries were reported in the blaze. The homeowner, Thomas Turner, reportedly was sleeping in a front bedroom when he was awakened by breaking glass and fire in the room.

Trulson said the front exterior and portions of the interior were damaged extensively.

Neighbors reported that a man about 6 feet tall, having a slender build and short, dark hair was seen leaving the scene after the fire started.

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