Fire Tragedy Foiled by Gas Leak

Disclaimer: All persons are innocent until proven guilty.

A West Monroe man was arrested recently after allegedly trying to set fire to a residence. Yes, incidences like this happen now and then, but the appalling thing about this particular incident is there were people inside the residence at the time. According to the West Monroe PD, officers responded to a call on Cedar St. on Tuesday, August 2, 2022, on reports of an attempt to set a dwelling on fire. One of the victims told officers that he was awakened by the smell of natural gas from his bedroom. The victim told police that the alleged suspect was identified as Charles Boles, who was “pouring” lighter fluid on the floor. A few seconds later, according to the victim/witness, Boles returned with a lighter in an attempt to ignite the lighter fluid. Before the alleged suspect could start a fire, he was confronted by the victim. At this time, Boles was said to have fled the scene. After Boles fled from the residence, the victim checked to see where the breach had been made. The victim soon discovered that the leak came from the valve on the water heater, as the knob was turned to the “on” position. Officers also noted that there were seven people inside of the residence at the time when Boles allegedly committed those acts. As of press time, officers did not disclose why Boles reportedly tried to start a fire, nor did officers indicate if there was a relationship between the two parties. It was a blessing one of the victims was awakened by the smell of gas and took immediate action to prevent the possible loss of life. West Monroe PD officers were able to locate Boles and place him under arrest. He was taken to the Ouachita Correctional Center and booked.