APD Charge Man in House Fire

Asheville -- My 25, 2024: Detectives from the Asheville Police Department have charged

a man in relation to a home fire. On May 20, the Asheville Fire Department was called to a house on Spear Avenue in order to put out a fire. After suffering smoke inhalation, three residents of the house were sent to Mission Hospital for medical attention.

Investigators found that the incident was "man-made" and not the result of defective wiring or electrical equipment after conducting additional examination. Detectives charged James Earl Owen with First-degree Arson, Second-Degree Trespassing, Interfering with Emergency Communications, Injury to Real Property, and Injury to Personal Property after working along with the Asheville Fire Department on the investigation.

Owen is currently receiving treatment at Mission Hospital; his open warrants will be served once released.

The investigation is ongoing; anyone with information regarding this incident or any other suspicious activity is encouraged to contact APD at 828-252-1110.