Dexter man arrested for arson

DEXTER, Mo. -- A Monday morning residential fire has led to the arrest of a Dexter man on suspicion of second-degree arson.

James Higgs, 54, is suspected of having started a fire inside 815 N. Sassafras St. in Dexter, according to a probable-cause statement.

Daniel Johnson, an investigator for the Missouri Division of Fire Safety, was called to the scene.

In his report, Johnson noted the fire had spread from the southwest bedroom, which had extensive damage throughout. He also was able to eliminate all accidental causes of fire in the area of origin.

According to the report, Johnson said the material ignited to start the fire was "available combustibles," and the source of the ignition was not found. Johnson concluded the source of ignition must have been an open flame "applied by human hand."

Given the evidence of the low-level burning in the area of origin, the elimination of any accidental cause of the fire and a witness report of Higgs leaving the residence with a framed photograph in hand prior to the fire starting, Johnson concluded the fire was arson.

According to the report, the witness said Higgs left the residence and walked south on Sassafras Street, and by the time Higgs reached the end of the road, smoke was coming from the south window of the residence.

The witness provided a written statement about what she observed.

Pertinent address:

815 N. Sassafras St., Dexter, Mo.