Justin Lee Clark
He was arrested on Friday..
Hagerstown, Md (KM) The Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office has charged a Williamsport man with setting fire to a makeshift homeless shelter. Justin Lee Clark, 31, was taken into custody on Friday., and charged with 1st-degree arson, 1st-degree malicious burning, malicious destruction of property over $1,000, and theft.
Investigators say at around 3:30 PM on Friday , May 28th, fire fighters responded a Tractor Supply store in the 1700 block of Massey Boulevard in Hagerstown. Behind the store, was a homeless tent which was on fire. The flames were put out very quickly. No one was injured.
The State Fire Marshal’s Office was called to the scene and determined the fire was deliberately set to the 10-foot by 14-foot tent. .
Investigators canvassed the area, and reviewed surveillance video which showed Clark purchasing a gas can and a small amount of gasoline. He then walked behind the store where the homeless tent was located.
Clark is currently being held without bond at the Washington County Detention Center.
“We will not tolerate this type of behavior towards some of our most vulnerable Marylanders,” said State Fire Marshal Brian Geraci, in a statement.. “This was someone’s home. I applaud the work of investigators in this case, who pursued the person responsible. Everyone deserves to enjoy the same peace and tranquility that we all expect when go home.”
By Kevin McManus