The Flagstaff Police Department arrested one man on charges related to reckless burning following the ignition of a small fire on Thursday, May 15. Police believe the suspect may have been involved with two additional fires.
According to a department press release, Raymond Glover Jr. was identified by witnesses after officers responded to a minor wildland fire at the J.W. Powell exit of Interstate 17, around 11:20 a.m. Glover allegedly watched the fire after its initial start, entered the Swift Travel Center across the road to purchase food, then returned to watching the fire.
One witness reportedly told police that Glover admitted to starting the fire, though Glover later claimed he had only been joking.
Police say Glover was also observed in the vicinity of a fire earlier that morning on the opposite side of the highway, and is a person of interest in the case of a fire from the previous evening, behind the Red Lobster near the intersection of Milton Road and McConnell Drive.
The specific charge of is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Arizona. However, the related charge of can range from a Class 2 misdemeanor all the way up to a Class 3 felony, depending on the offender鈥檚 intent and the danger posed to others. As of Friday, May 16, the Arizona Daily Sun had not yet been able to confirm the precise charges against Glover.
Flagstaff police emphasized the extreme fire danger that exists in northern Arizona, particularly during dry and windy conditions. Wildland fires can escalate quickly and threaten public safety, property, and natural resources.
The department also encouraged residents and visitors to report suspicious activity. Tips can be submitted via the non-emergency line at 928-774-1414, or anonymously through Silent Witness at 928-774-6111.