MARANA, Arizona — The Marana Police Department has arrested 22-year-old Amarion Person following an arson investigation at the Living Word Baptist Church, located at 13526 N. Sandario Road. On October 25, 2024, at around 9:38 p.m., officers and Northwest Fire District personnel responded to a structure fire at the church. The building was actively engulfed in flames upon their arrival, prompting swift action to extinguish the fire and secure the surrounding area.

Due to the suspicious nature of the fire, a criminal investigation was launched. Marana Police investigators processed the scene, collecting evidence that was sent for forensic analysis. The analysis revealed DNA evidence belonging to Person, who was already in custody at the Pima County Jail on an unrelated matter. On April 11, 2025, investigators interviewed Person at the jail, establishing probable cause for his arrest in connection with the church fire.

Person faces serious charges, including Arson of an Occupied Structure (Class 4 Felony), Criminal Damage Exceeding $10,000 (Class 4 Felony), and Criminal Trespass, First Degree (Class 6 Felony). The police clarified that the church was not targeted for religious reasons but was chosen as a crime of opportunity. The investigation remains active, with no further details available at this time.

Published by State Gleam
Keywords: Amarion Person, Marana Police, Church Arson, Living Word Baptist, DNA Evidence, April 11, Northwest Fire