Man Accused of Arson at Southfield, MI, Fire Station
A Southfield man has been charged in connection with an arson last week at a city fire station.
Police were called at about noon Feb. 17 to Southfield's Fire Station No. 3 on 12 Mile after a report that someone intentionally poured gasoline on the ground nearby, ignited it, and fled the scene, representatives said in a statement.
A crew returning to the station saw the flames and started extinguishing it. Investigators said only the station’s garage door, an entry door, and sections of vinyl siding were damaged. Other firefighters had been inside the building at the time but were not injured.
Officers and detectives used advanced technology to capture images of the getaway vehicle and found surveillance video of the suspect, identified as Devon Woodson, purchasing gasoline at the nearby Sunoco, the police department said.
The Southfield Police Tactical Surveillance Unit later found Woodson's home, conducted a surveillance operation and arrested the 33-year-old around 3 p.m. the same day.
“A fire station represents safety, readiness, and service. An attack on the facility is an attack on every resident who depends on rapid emergency response," Police Chief Elvin Barren said in a statement. "The " Southfield Police Department stands shoulder to shoulder with our firefighters in protecting this community. I am proud of our officers for their swift, professional actions in apprehending the violent suspect and ensuring accountability."
The Oakland County Prosecutor's Office issued one count of second-degree arson.
Woodson was held at the Oakland County Jail after his arraignment then released after posting a $10,000 bond, records show.
A probable cause conference is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. March 6 at 46th District Court.
An attorney representing Woodson could not immediately be reached Monday.
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