55°
Lexington Park resident Cesar Augusto Gonzalez-Lopez was arrested at around noon on Monday afternoon when members of the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office were called to the 46000 block of Sue Drive to investigate a blaze, according to the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal.
Investigators say that a dispute over allegedly stolen property the previous night between Gonzalez-Lopez and the homeowner led to the fire.
Witnesses advised deputies that Gonzalez-Lopez had entered a shed behind the home and emerged with a container. He then began spreading an oily substance on the outside of the home.
They also reported that "Gonzalez-Lopez had broken into the residence, causing damage to the home.
Before investigators arrived, deputies detained Gonzalez-Lopez at his brother's residence.
During the investigation, "deputies confirmed that several witnesses had seen Gonzalez-Lopez pouring the oily substance and asking for a lighter, indicating his intent to ignite the residence and subsequently leaving the property," according to the Fire Marshal.
Gonzalez-Lopez was charged with:
- First-and third-degree burglary;
- Malicious destruction of property;
- Attempted first-degree arson;
- Arson threat.
He was being held at the St. Mary's County Detention Center in Leonardtown without bond.
Want breaking news in the DMV as it happens, or want to contribute? Join the DMV All Incidents Facebook group.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Lexington Park and receive free news updates.
