Oakland Man Arrested for Arson After Returning to Scene

An Oakland man has been apprehended and charged with arson after allegedly returning to the scene of a house fire he is accused of starting in Garrett County, Maryland. The incident, which occurred on September 2, led to significant property damage and a minor injury to a firefighter.

The arrest followed an investigation initiated by the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office. According to details released by the State Fire Marshal, the homeowner at 1037 Pergin Farm Road observed an individual, later identified as Ryan Lawrence Spann, 40, igniting a fire on the front porch of the residence around 2:30 p.m. The homeowner pursued the suspect, managing to capture photographs as Spann fled on a bicycle before abandoning it and entering the woods. A friend of the homeowner attempted to extinguish the flames and contacted emergency services.

Fire departments, including Deer Park Volunteer Fire Company and several others, responded to the blaze, as did the Garrett County Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office played a crucial role by disseminating a photo of the suspect on social media, which quickly led to public tips confirming Spann’s identity. Law enforcement agencies, including the Maryland State Police and Natural Resources Police, assisted by establishing a perimeter to locate Spann.

Investigators determined the fire to be intentionally set, causing an estimated $205,000 in damages. One firefighter sustained a minor injury that was treated at the scene by emergency medical services, and the individual was subsequently released. While initially unsuccessful in locating Spann after the scene was cleared by local law enforcement, Deputy State Fire Marshals continued their examination of the property. It was during this ongoing investigation that they spotted Spann in the adjacent woods and took him into custody without incident.

Spann faces charges including first-degree arson, third-degree burglary, and reckless endangerment. Authorities have indicated that there is no known connection between Spann and the homeowner, characterizing the incident as a random act of arson. Spann is currently being held at the Garrett County Detention Center without bond.

The quick apprehension of the suspect highlights the collaborative efforts between multiple law enforcement and fire service agencies. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of public cooperation in assisting investigations, particularly when information is shared through official channels like social media. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local authorities.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland State Fire Marshal.

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