Homeless Man Set On Fire, APD Search for Possible Witnesses

(ASHEVILLE, N.C. - Aug. 21, 2019) - Asheville Police Department (APD) arrested Robert Charles Austin, 66, of Asheville just before 2 a.m. Wednesday at 17 Tunnel Road. Austin had been charged with attempted first degree murder in the investigation of a fire that took place early Sunday morning at 1329 Tunnel Road, which resulted in a 58 year-old man suffering from severe burns. Officers were responding to an alarm at Papa’s and Beer when they discovered Austin outside the back of the business and took him into custody without incident.  

APD is asking for assistance from the public in identifying two potential

witnesses in the case. The drivers of the white GMC Sierra pickup truck (driver photo attached) and silver Jeep Liberty SUV depicted in the surveillance photos may have information that would be beneficial to the investigation due to their presence in the area not long before the incident took place. Neither driver is considered a suspect in the case.

Anyone who has information concerning the incident in question or potential witnesses is asked to call APD at 828-252-1110 or Asheville-Buncombe Crimestoppers at 828-255-5050. Callers may remain anonymous with both numbers.

*This post appears on Asheville Police Face Book Page Aug 21, 2019