A Cumberland County man is now facing an arson charge following an investigation into a 2024 fire at a Crossville bar and grill. The incident occurred on March 2, 2024, at Bootleggers Bar and Grill on Highway 70, resulting in significant roof damage and extensive interior smoke damage. According to WATE, responders from the Crossville Fire Department initially battled the blaze. Subsequent investigative efforts pointed to the fire being set intentionally.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), alongside the Crossville Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, determined that the responsible individual for the fire was a Brandon Jones. In a 3B Media News release, Jones was indicted by a grand jury on Monday and swiftly arrested to be booked into the Cumberland County Jail, his bond set at $75,000. It should be noted that these charges and allegations are merely accusations. Jones maintains the presumption of innocence until, and if, proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt through due process.
The TBI's inclusion in the inquiry began on March 4, 2024, just days after the fire. Their specialized fire investigation agents worked collaboratively to collect evidence and to establish the intent behind the fire's origin carefully. As reported by WBIR, their findings were significant in identifying Brandon Chance Jones as the individual responsible for setting the fire.
