Arsonist Arrested For Repeat Offense

The workers evacuated the building and called 911, reporting the grass outside was on fire. The Chattanooga Fire Department responded, but the workers had most of the fire out when the first firefighters arrived on the scene. There was no damage to the building and no one was injured.

While evacuating the building, the workers spotted a man in the vicinity of the fire, reportedly throwing away a cigarettte lighter. Chattannooga police held the suspect on the scene so he could be questioned by Lt. Henry McElvain with the Fire Investigation Division. After conducting a quick investigation, Lt. McElvain charged Kashmone Marlin, 20, with aggravated arson. Lt. McElvain said the charge was upgraded to aggravated arson because people were inside the building and their lives were in danger. Chattanooga police transported Mr. Marlin to the county jail early this afternoon for booking.

Mr. Marlin was also arrested on July 23, 2012 for starting a fire at 602 E. 11th Street, at the construction site of the city's new wellness center. The fire there caused very little damage.