Arrest Made Following Arson Investigation
Published on April 15, 2025
News Release
Marana Police Department
Jeffrey Pridgett
Chief of Police
Date: 4/15/2025
Contact:
Vincent Rizzi
Sergeant, Community Resource Unit/ Public Information Office
(520) 382-2044
MPDPIO@maranaaz.gov
Arson Investigation Leads to Arrest
Marana Police Respond to Structure Fire at Local Church — Arrest Made Following Investigation
Marana, AZ – On October 25, 2024, at approximately 9:38 PM, officers from the Marana Police Department, along with personnel from the Northwest Fire District, responded to a reported structure fire at the Living Word Baptist Church, located at 13526 N. Sandario Road.
Upon arrival, the structure was actively engulfed. The area was secured, and Northwest Fire personnel worked swiftly to extinguish the fire and ensure the safety of the surrounding community.
A criminal investigation was initiated due to the suspicious nature of the fire. Investigators processed the scene and recovered evidence, which was submitted for forensic analysis. As a result, DNA evidence was identified at the scene belonging to 22-year-old Amarion Person, who was already in custody at the Pima County Jail on an unrelated matter.
On April 11, 2025, Marana Police investigators conducted a follow-up interview with Person at the Pima County Jail. Based on the investigation and evidence collected, probable cause was established to charge Amarion Person with the following offenses:
- Arson of an Occupied Structure (Class 4 Felony)
- Criminal Damage Exceeding $10,000 (Class 4 Felony)
- Criminal Trespass, 1st Degree (Class 6 Felony)
The incident location was not targeted by the suspect for religious reasons but was chosen as a crime of opportunity. This remains an active investigation. No further details are available currently.
For additional information or media inquiries, please contact the Marana Police Department Public Information Office at MPDPIO@Maranaaz.gov