Hancock, MD – A 78-year-old man has been arrested and charged with multiple offenses following an investigation into a house fire earlier this month in Washington County.
The Office of the State Fire Marshal identified the suspect as Alvin Gerald Funk of Hancock.
He is accused of trying to set his home on fire while another person was inside.
Key Points
- 78-year-old Hancock man charged with first-degree attempted arson and arson threat
- Police say he tried to ignite a fire in his home while another occupant was asleep
- Officers used a fire extinguisher to put out blaze before it spread
Fire stopped before spreading
Police were called to the 6100 block of Hess Road around 12:40 a.m. on October 15 after reports that Funk attempted to ignite his residence. Responding Hancock Police officers found a small fire in the garage and extinguished it before it could spread further. Another person was asleep inside the home at the time but was not injured.
Evidence recovered at scene
Deputy State Fire Marshals discovered a torch-style lighter, a charred cardboard box, and several fire starter logs in the garage during their investigation. The findings led to charges of first-degree attempted arson, arson threat, reckless endangerment, and malicious destruction of property.
Suspect in custody
Funk was taken to Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown for evaluation before being released and arrested Wednesday. He is currently being held without bond at the Washington County Detention Center. No other injuries were reported.