A late-night fire at Wat Navaram Buddhist Temple in Sanford turned into a rolling police chase across multiple Florida counties, ending with the arrest of an Atlanta man who authorities say now faces a slate of felony charges.
Sanford police said officers responding to the blaze at the temple saw a person at the scene who took off running when they tried to make contact. The suspect allegedly sped away, leading officers through Volusia County before Florida Highway Patrol troopers intercepted and arrested him in Flagler County. Police identified the man as 51-year-old Singhasouk Danny Phanouvong of Atlanta. Booking records show he was taken to the Volusia County jail and is being held on multiple felony counts.
According to ClickOrlando, Sanford officers had responded late Saturday to the reported fire at the temple when they spotted the individual, who then fled. The outlet reports that police pursued the suspect into Volusia County and that state troopers ultimately arrested him in Flagler County. Citing booking records, the station notes that Phanouvong faces charges of first-degree arson, two counts of burglary of an occupied dwelling, two counts of fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, and resisting arrest with violence.
Sanford Temple and Community
The Wat Navaram Buddhist Temple, which lists its address as 2381 Narcissus Avenue, serves as a Lao community hub and hosts cultural gatherings, including an April Lao New Year festival, according to the City of Sanford. The temple also maintains a public page with its own listing and contact information for those seeking services or community events.
Charges and Legal Note
Phanouvong was booked into the Volusia County Corrections facility and remains in custody pending further court proceedings, according to ClickOrlando. Under Florida law, arson of a dwelling or of a structure where people are normally present is treated as first-degree arson, a first-degree felony subject to the state’s sentencing rules, per the Florida Statutes.
What Happens Next
The investigation remains active. Prosecutors are expected to review the booking and arraignment paperwork and then decide whether to file formal charges. As the case moves forward, booking information and court dockets will be accessible through the Volusia County Division of Corrections and the county clerk’s public records systems.
