The State
RICHLAND COUNTY, S.C. — A man has been arrested after he allegedly set his home on fire and attempted to prevent firefighters from extinguishing the fire early Sunday morning, according to Richland County Sheriff’s authorities.
Lt. Curtis Wilson, a department spokesman, said sheriff’s deputies and Columbia firefighters were dispatched to the 500 block of Camp Ground Road off Monticello Road to a domestic dispute and house fire.
When authorities arrived, the residence was on fire and firefighters attempted to enter the home to begin extinguishing the blaze. But, Wilson said George Kennedy, 42, attempted to stop firefighters from entering the home.
Wilson said Kennedy was removed from the home and taken to a local hospital and treated for smoke inhalation.
Wilson said a preliminary investigation revealed that the fire stemmed from a domestic dispute between Kennedy and his wife. Kennedy allegedly forced his wife and her mother from the residence before setting a fire in the home and stayed inside. No other injuries were reported from the incident.
Kennedy was charged with third degree arson and taken into custody by sheriff’s deputies.
Wilson said investigators are continuing to investigate the incident.
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