Jul 26, 2024

Man jailed for starting fire in basement of Kansas home

Posted Jul 26, 2024 9:00 PM
Raines-photo Shawnee Co.
Raines-photo Shawnee Co.

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Police investigating a fire at a home in Topeka have made an arrest.

Just before 7 a.m. Wednesday, crews responded to a reported house fire at 1305 SW Western Avenue in Topeka, according to spokesperson Rosie Nichols. Firefighters found smoke coming from the home and fire in the basement. Crews were able to extinguish the fire and no occupants were located in the house. No injuries have been reported.

Photo courtesy WIBW TV
Photo courtesy WIBW TV

A TFD Investigation Unit responded to this fire and later determined it was intentionally set.  As result of the investigation, Michael W. Raines, 27, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on a requested charge of Aggravated Arson.

Authorities did not release a damage estimate.