More information has been released about a Monday morning house fire, and a Carmi woman is facing more charges after an arson investigation.
According to a press release from Carmi Police Chief Jason Carter, 57 year old Karen Miller was initially charged Monday with one count of aggravated battery, and has now been charged with counts of residential arson, criminal damage to property, and theft under $500.
Carmi Fire and Police were called to a structure fire at 611 Second Street Monday around 12:30 pm. Responders found the southwest side of the home engulfed in flames, and additional fire units were called to the scene. Personnel and equipment from Norris City, Enfield, and Crossville assisted the Fire Department with extinguishing the blaze.
Carmi Police began interviewing witnesses upon arrival at the scene. They learned that Miller was seen having a verbal altercation in the street with the current female resident of the home, and that it had turned physical, leading to the battery charge. Miller was arrested inside 610 Second Street. Officers also were informed that two dogs had been taken from the fenced back yard at 611 Second Sunday night, both of which were found in the basement of 610 at the time of Miller’s arrest.
Following an investigation by the Illinois State Fire Marshall’s office, it was determined that the fire was intentionally set, leading to formal charges of arson against Miller Tuesday morning.
Miller remains housed in the White County Jail.
