[UPDATE] Three arrests made in connection to Tuesday night fires

SYLACAUGA, Ala. – Sylacauga Police Department investigators have interviewed a total of three suspects in connection to Tuesday night’s fires across the city. One juvenile has been arrested.

Sylacauga Police Chief Kelley Johnson told SylacaugaNews.com six fires occurred last night with one being on the edge of town. He said the fire on Cross Creek Ln. is believed to be unrelated. However, investigators are still processing all elements from each location. One fire started in an occupied residence. The individual inside was able to escape with minor injuries. No other injuries have been reported.

The juvenile arrested is a male and being held at the Talladega County Jail. All suspects in the case are suspected to be juveniles.

Chief Johnson said all the fires seem to be a result of arson. If convicted, criminals could serve 10 years to life in prison as a Class A felony – a sentence equal to that of murder.

The State Fire Marshal will be investigating the sites Wednesday. Chief Johnson said more arrests are possible.

[UPDATE] Nov. 8, 2017 – 12:52 p.m.

SylacaugaNews.com spoke to Sylacauga Police Chief Kelley Johnson. He explained that reports coming out of Birmingham are false. A total of three juveniles have been taken into custody. Two of the offenders are over the age of 16. Johnson explained felony  charges are pending and there is a possibility at least one of the offenders will be charged as an adult.

The first arrest took place in the area of the fires around 12:15 Wednesday morning. Johnson said the two other suspects were taken into custody after running into a nearby wooded area. He also explained there is a great chance the arsonists were watching each fire closely, blending in with the gathered crowds.

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Michael Brannon for SylacaugaNews.com | © 2017, SylacaugaNews.com/Marble City Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.