Centreville Man Charged with Arson

Centreville Man Charged with Arson

Queen Anne's County, February 7, 2017, Deputy State Fire Marshals arrested John Henry Gant 3rd (32) in Easton today for a fire that occurred yesterday in Centreville. Deputy State Fire Marshals investigated the 7:00 a.m. blaze on February 6, 2017 at 204 Tilghman Avenue in Centreville. The Goodwill Volunteer Fire Company was able to bring the 1 alarm fire under control in 20 minutes.

An investigation into the origin and cause of the fire determined the fire was ARSON and set in multiple locations both inside and outside of the two story single family house causing over $15,000.00 in damages. The investigation also revealed that the home was not occupied and the fire was discovered by a neighbor.

Through the investigation, Deputy State Fire Marshals developed John Henry Gant 3rd as a suspect and later arrested him at their office in Easton. Deputy State Fire Marshals transported Gant to the Queen Anne’s County Detention Center where he is being held with no bond. Gant’s motive for burning the house was determined to be due to an earlier argument with his girlfriend who had previously resided at the residence with Gant.

Deputy State Fire Marshals charged Gant with Arson 1st Degree, two counts of Malicious burning 1st Degree, one count of Malicious Burning 2nd Degree and Arson Threat. If convicted of all charges, Gant faces a maximum penalty of over 51 years in prison and/or $70,500 in fines.