Former firefighter accused of setting multiple Detroit homes on fire
A former Detroit firefighter has been charged in connection with a series of arsons that occurred at multiple residences throughout the city, prosecutors said, calling the allegations in the case "horrifying."
Eric Dwayne Anderson, 52, faces multiple charges, including arson, home invasion and larceny, in connection with fires that occurred on Detroit's west side between July 19 and Aug. 4, according to prosecutors.
In one incident, prosecutors allege that Anderson set a residence on fire, then entered a firehouse and stole items in the building while firefighters responded to the blaze.
At another residence, prosecutors said a refrigerator, stove and two pit bull puppies were stolen before the house was then set on fire. Anderson is further accused of setting fires at two other homes, as well as a commercial dumpster in front of another residence.
No one was injured in any of the fires, prosecutors said.
Anderson is being held on $1 million bond, officials said. A probable cause hearing has been scheduled for Aug. 18. Online court records do not list any attorney information for him.
Anderson resigned from the Detroit Fire Department in June 2023, officials said.
"The allegations in this case are deeply disturbing, particularly because they involve a former member of the Detroit Fire Department and an alleged theft from a firehouse while our firefighters were out answering a call for help," Detroit Fire Commissioner Charles Simms said in a statement on Monday.
"Anyone who deliberately sets fires, steals from a firehouse, or otherwise jeopardizes the safety of Detroiters will be held accountable, regardless of who they are or whether they have ever worn a Detroit Fire Department uniform," he continued.
Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, who brought the charges against Anderson, said the case "shocks the conscience."
"The alleged criminal actions of this former firefighter are horrifying," she said in a statement.
