The Columbia Police and Fire Departments announce the arrest of a 60-year-old man accused of intentionally setting a building on fire last night.
Major Anthony Kennedy (DOB: 5-29-1957) is charged with Arson–Third Degree, Burglary – Third Degree, Drunkenness, and Trespassing and is currently housed at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.
Kennedy is accused of setting multiple items on fire last night at 2222 North Main Street. As a result, part of the structure sustained smoke and fire damage.
Columbia fire crews noticed smoke at the location after answering another call for service before discovering the fire.
CPD officers were dispatched to the scene. In a joint effort, police and fire crews were able to remove other items from the location to prevent further damage to the building.
The first responders also checked the building to ensure that no one was trapped inside or injured in any way. No one was found inside.
A citizen provided CPD with information about the suspect’s whereabouts after the incident. Kennedy was located nearby, attempting to hide from police behind an electrified fence. CFD crews breached the fence to help CPD make contact with Kennedy.
Investigators are working to determine a motive for the crimes. South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) Agents were requested to assist with the investigation.
All persons arrested/charged are presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty in a court of law.
