Melbourne, AR. – Yesterday, the Izard County Sheriff’s Department reported on an arrest that was preceded by attempted arson.
This happened on October 26th when law enforcement responded to a residence on Lakeview Road in Melbourne, AR. Two individuals, along with a 5-year-old child, were seen fleeing from a residence in a hurry and struck another vehicle and a fence post in doing so.
Contact was made with the homeowner via phone, who stated that the intruders had threatened to burn down the home. The suspects were identified as Courtney Keathley, 30, and Luke Vest, 27.
Damage to the home and its contents was evident, along with the presence of lighter fluid in various locations inside. The cell phone of one of the intruders was also discovered inside the residence.
Vest was spotted driving by while the investigation was ongoing. Following him to another residence led to the apprehension of both him and Keathley.
Both are being held on charges including residential burglary, attempted arson, criminal mischief, and endangering the welfare of a child. Their bonds have been set at $50,000.
