A Moline Man Is Charged With Arson After Setting Girlfriend's Couch On Fire

Photo: Douglas Sacha / Moment / Getty Images

(Moline, IL) -- Arson charges have been filed in connection with a fire at a Moline apartment complex.

Investigators say 61-year-old James Byars is charged with two counts of arson after he reportedly set his girlfriend's couch on fire.

The Moline Fire Department responded to a fire alarm activation February 21 at around 9:04 p.m. at The Moline Enterprise Lofts located at 1871 River Drive

Firefighters observed visible alarms and water emanating from the building's upper floors upon arrival.

The building's sprinklers were activated, extinguishing the fire before crews arrived.

No injuries were reported.

Byers was arrested shortly after the fire.

Police claim Byars told them he was going to kill his girlfriend when he got out of jail.


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