Jefferson County deputies are on the hunt for a 45-year-old man they say torched a Dandridge home on Tuesday, leaving the house destroyed and a nearby camper and two vehicles damaged. Witnesses told investigators the man took off from the scene on a motorcycle, possibly heading toward Newport.
According to WATE 6 On Your Side, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has identified the suspect as 45-year-old Jeremy Ball, who is wanted on a charge of aggravated arson. The station reports the fire broke out in the 2300 block of Gunner Hollow Road after a witness said they saw Ball ignite the structure. Deputies described the home as a total loss. Authorities asked anyone with information to call e-911 and listed Detective Sgt. Jonathan Owens’ contact is 865-471-6000, extension 1106.
Sheriff's Office Alert And How To Help
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office shared the search on its official channels and urged residents to report any sightings, according to the county’s Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office page. The county’s Jefferson County department directory lists non-emergency dispatch at (865) 475-6855, along with other contacts where tips can also be routed.
Legal Stakes
Aggravated arson in Tennessee is charged under Justia, which outlines the offense and notes it is treated as a Class A felony when a fire puts people or first responders in danger. Sentencing ranges for Class A felonies are laid out in Justia, and those guidelines would apply if charges move forward and a conviction is ultimately secured.
Investigation Ongoing
As of the sheriff’s public alert, no arrest has been announced, and deputies say the investigation is still active. Authorities have repeated their request that anyone with information call e-911 or contact Detective Sgt. Owens at the number provided by the Sheriff’s Office, according to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.
