Columbia Police detectives have arrested Zackary W. La'Roe, 20, of Columbia in reference to an arson on Pendleton Street this morning.

The investigation began when Columbia Fire Department was dispatched at 10:55 a.m. to 6 Pendleton Street in reference to a residential structure fire. Upon arrival, fire crews observed fire and smoke coming from the east side of the single family home. The incident was brought under control in approximately ten minutes. Fire crews observed suspicious items while extinguishing the fire and requested involvement from a Columbia Police detective and a Fire investigator.

The investigation continued throughout the day and probable cause was established for La'Roe. It was determined La'Roe had purchased gasoline and put the gasoline into the container the fire crews located at the scene. La'Roe poured the gasoline onto the ground next to the exterior wall of the structure and lit the gasoline on fire. La'Roe was arrested at 2:20 p.m. at 6 Pendleton Street for Arson in the First Degree with a bond to be set by the Court.

This arrest was made possible by hard work and cooperation between the Columbia Fire Department and the Columbia Police Department.  

2016-010113