Fire truck racing to the emergency scene. File photo
Fire truck racing to the emergency scene. File Photo

Elderly Hancock man charged with attempted arson after house fire investigation

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1 min read
October 31, 2025

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.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital newsroom providing original reporting on New Jersey, national news, government, public policy, public safety, courts, and community affairs.

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