UPDATE: Officials say arson was suicide attempt; suspect arrested
RICHMOND POLICE
David Junious McLean Jr., 34
Published: October 29, 2009
Updated: October 29, 2009
Authorities arrested a man they say tried to kill himself by setting fire to a house in Richmond’s East End, only to be rescued by firefighters from the burning building.
Authorities charged David Junious McLean Jr., 34, with arson after the fire that started late last night in the 1200 block of North 26th Street.
The blaze was reported at 11:43 p.m. When the first fire trucks arrived, the two-story house was ablaze.
Firefighters rescued McLean, who was trapped on the second floor, by erecting a ladder to a back porch, said fire Lt. Shawn L. Jones.
He was taken to VCU Medical Center and is now in the Richmond City Jail, according to Jones. No one else was in the home at the time of the fire, he said. McLean lives in the 1500 block of North 22nd Street.
The blaze was under control by 2:30 a.m.
Advertisement
Reader Reactions
Yes, setting oneself on fire seems like a very intense method of suicide, if that was truly the intended outcome. Even more reason for increased mental health funding.
This is a very sad story. I know that what the man did is wrong and illegal, but I think placing him in jail at this time, was a stupid thing to do, he needs help right now, not punishment. Jail is clearly not the place for him at this time. Thank god nobody was hurt.
Post a Comment(Requires free registration)
- Please avoid offensive, vulgar, or hateful language.
- Respect others.
- Use the "Flag Comment" link when necessary.
- See the Terms and Conditions for details.
Advertisement