Suspicious Fire in Lexington County
Arson Suspected as Investigation Unfolds
On June 28, a suspicious fire broke out at a residence on Addie Lucas Road in Lexington County. The fire service responde and Fire Marshal Nick Uveges quickly determined that the fire was not accidental or natural, according to the report of True Crime Daily.
As investigators looked into the blaze and they found a disturbing scene: a mattress had been fully consumed by flames with springs and frame lying in a pile. They ruled out electrical or lightning-related causes and found evidence pointing to arson.
(photo: WIS)
Arson and Attempted Murder Charges Filed After Suspicious Fire in Lexington County
The investigation revealed that 31-year-old Tracy Russell Jr. allegedly set the fire using torch fuel canisters attempting to kill a woman and two children who were inside. Russell had been acting erratically earlier that day and pacing around the house and speaking about drinking.
Russell was last seen near the area where the fire began, but did not return to the residence. One of the children noticed smoke in the kitchen, and another occupant discovered the primary bedroom was on fire. Miraculously, no one was injured.
Russell has been charged with three counts of attempted murder and one count of second-degree arson. He was arrested on July 10 in Orangeburg County and is being held without bond at the Lexington County Detention Center.
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