Harrison Man Arrested for Arson in Newton County

A 45-year-old Boone County man is in custody after allegedly setting two fires in Newton County on Saturday morning. Nathan Wayne Stuart, a resident of Harrison, is currently being held at the Newton County Jail.

According to Newton County Sheriff Glenn Wheeler, the sheriff's office was alerted to two separate fires located along Arkansas State Highway 74 East. A witness reported seeing a man at both locations shortly before smoke became visible. The witness provided law enforcement with a physical description of the suspect, a description of his vehicle, and a partial license plate number.

Upon arriving at the first residence, deputies observed smoke billowing from a window. After forcing entry into the home, deputies were able to extinguish the fire using handheld extinguishers. They proceeded to a second residence, where they again forced entry to put out a fire. The Hasty Fire Department also responded to the scene, using their equipment to breach a garage door and ensure the fire was completely extinguished to prevent any further flare-ups.

While deputies were interviewing the witness, a truck matching the suspect's description drove past them. Officers conducted a traffic stop and detained Stuart. During the encounter, Stuart spontaneously mentioned that the houses had been set on fire, though he denied any personal involvement. However, Sheriff Wheeler stated that physical evidence and personal items belonging to Stuart were discovered at the scenes.

Additionally, the sheriff's office had received reports earlier that morning regarding words and phrases written on roads and driveways. Stuart admitted to the deputies that he had used lime to create these markings.

Stuart is facing two counts of arson, two counts of criminal mischief, and one count of disorderly conduct. His bond has been set at $15,000.

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