Husband Sets Own Home Ablaze After Violent Domestic Dispute in Sykesville
A domestic dispute in Sykesville escalated into a deliberate house fire after a husband set his own home ablaze. The incident, which unfolded on Sherry Drive, left the property damaged and the suspect facing arson charges after turning himself in to authorities.
The suspect, identified as 47-year-old Michael J. Smith, had been living in an RV outside the house while his wife remained inside. After a heated argument with her, he forcibly entered the home, breaking windows and threatening to set it on fire during a call to the sheriff’s office.
Security footage later revealed Smith pouring petrol in an upstairs bedroom before igniting it. The explosion was strong enough to knock a back door off its hinges. Despite the violence, he made sure his wife was outside before starting the fire.
Smith suffered minor burns in the incident and was taken to a burn centre for treatment. After being released, he admitted to starting the fire and surrendered to investigators. The couple had been married for 30 years before the confrontation.
The suspect now faces formal arson charges following his confession. The house on Sherry Drive sustained significant damage, with the investigation confirming the fire was deliberately set. Authorities continue to assess the full extent of the harm caused by the blaze.
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