LEXINGTON, S.C. – Lexington County deputies have arrested a man accused of trying to kill two children and a woman by setting fire to a home.
Tracy Chad Russell Jr., 31, is charged with three counts of attempted murder and a single count of second-degree arson, according to arrest warrants.
“The Lexington County Fire Service responded to a structure fire in the 100 block of Addie Lucas Road during the afternoon of June 28,” Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon said. “They let us know the fire looked suspicious so, with the assistance of the LCFS Fire Marshals Division, we started an investigation.”
Investigators eventually determined Russell knew three people were inside the house when he intentionally set fire to it using torch fuel canisters, according to Koon.
“We talked with witnesses, and those involved, to confirm a timeline that is supported by when smoke was seen and the evidence recovered from the scene,” Koon said. “Russell left the home after the fire and didn’t return to the property.”
Deputies arrested Russell Wednesday in Orangeburg County. He’s being held in the Lexington County Detention Center while he awaits a bond hearing.