A man has been arrested for allegedly trying to burn a trailer in Victorville with its occupants still inside, police said. The incident occurred early Friday morning on the 16200 block of Teton Street when the suspect, Nicholas Benjamin Ray, 38, is said to have returned to the trailer after previously threatening the victims to vacate the premises, as per SBSD - Victorville Police Department.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department reported that the victims refused to greet Ray at the door due to fear of confrontation, prompting the suspect to purportedly set the trailer ablaze. The victims, who smelled gas and then saw flames, were forced to kick the door open to narrowly escape the fire. Ray allegedly fled the scene before deputies could arrive to immediately apprehend him.
Ray was later captured in Apple Valley and is now facing charges of attempted murder, possession of a controlled substance, and probation violation. He was booked at the High Desert Detention Center, according to SBSD - Victorville Police Department.
The case, now well into its investigative stages, is being handled by Deputy W. Torres and Detective E. Badillo. The incident number is 172401104 and inquiries or tips regarding the grievous matter should be directed to the Victorville station at (760)241-2911.
