A man has been taken into custody in Bexar County, accused of arson and attempted murder, after reportedly trying to set fire to a residential building with people inside. According to the KTSA, the incident was initiated upon a call to the Von Ormy Police Department regarding an attempt to ignite a structure on Benton City Road. The Bexar County Fire Marshal’s Office (BCFMO) investigators later determined that the fire was intentionally set.
Charged with the crimes is Iker Sanchez, aged 37, who was arrested by law enforcement agencies, including the San Antonio Police Department's Raven Unit, in northwest San Antonio. After the arrest, operating along with the Texas Department of Public Safety, the BCFMO announced that, "Our swift action underscores our commitment to public safety and our community," as per a statement by Bexar County Fire Marshal Chris Lopez, which was obtained by KTSA. Amidst the chaos, children were found to be in the home when the fire was set, leading to additional charges against Sanchez.
The KSAT report details the charges, which include arson of a habitation, attempted murder, and a terroristic threat. It has also been confirmed that an immigration detainer has been placed on Sanchez, who is now being held at the Bexar County Adult Detention Center.
At a set bond of $170,000, the Fire Marshal’s office has expressed pride in their swift and collaborative response, which resulted in Sanchez's arrest less than 12 hours after the fire was initially reported. Sanchez was arrested by officers who appeared on the scene in the 1600 block of Michigan Avenue, seemingly ones adept at swift and tactical apprehension.
