News Summary
Douglas Waddell, a 64-year-old man, has been arrested for allegedly starting a fire in a dumpster at Northgate Terrace Apartments in Knoxville. Surveillance footage helped authorities identify him as he rearranged combustible materials before igniting the flames. Following the incident, he was apprehended with a lighter linking him to the crime. The event raises concerns about safety at the apartment complex and the implications of arson in residential areas.
Knoxville, TN – A 64-year-old man, Douglas Waddell, has been arrested for allegedly starting a fire in a dumpster at the Northgate Terrace Apartments, located on Whittle Springs Road. Waddell faces a felony charge for burning personal property and land in connection to the incident, which occurred on Tuesday evening.
Emergency officials reported receiving a fire alarm at approximately 8:22 p.m. on Tuesday, prompting a response to the scene. The property manager at the apartment complex provided surveillance footage, which helped authorities identify Waddell as the suspect involved in the incident.
The video footage indicated that Waddell, who was initially seen in a wheelchair, exited it to approach the dumpster. Witness accounts and evidence show that he rearranged combustible materials inside the dumpster before starting the fire. Shortly after igniting the flames, smoke became visible from the dumpster. As the fire grew, Waddell was observed adding more flammable items to the flames to intensify the blaze.
After lighting the fire, Waddell returned to his wheelchair and remained at the scene to observe as emergency services arrived. The surveillance video was crucial in apprehending him, as it clearly depicted his actions during the incident.
Authorities located Waddell the following day, Wednesday, at approximately 12:15 p.m., while he was still wearing the same clothing seen in the footage, which included a green t-shirt, blue jeans, and an orange and white hat. Upon his arrest, officers discovered a lighter in his left shirt pocket, linking him further to the crime.
Waddell is currently being held at the Knox County Jail, with his bond set at $2,000. A bond hearing has been scheduled for June 30 at 8:30 a.m.
Background Context on the Incident
The Northgate Terrace Apartments have previously experienced concerns regarding safety and property damage. This incident raises significant questions about resident safety and the protocols in place to prevent such events from occurring. According to local authorities, incidents of arson and vandalism can lead to increased insurance costs and troubles for property owners, especially in residential areas.
In Tennessee, the consequences for committing arson, particularly burning personal property, can be severe. Convictions for such offenses may lead to substantial fines and imprisonment, depending on the severity of the situation and any potential damages incurred.
This recent event has sparked a conversation about community safety measures and resources available for conflict resolution among residents. As investigations continue, officials urge residents to report any suspicious behaviors that could pose risks to property and personal safety. The prompt actions of the property manager and the responsiveness of emergency services exemplify the importance of vigilance and quick reporting in preventing further incidents.
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Additional Resources
- WBIR News: Man Accused of Starting Dumpster Fire
- Google Search: Northgate Terrace Apartments Knoxville
- WATE News: Knox County Plans to Buy Recycling Facility
- Wikipedia: Arson
- WATE News: Knoxville Waste and Recycling Facility Fires
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fire
- Knox News: Dumpster Fire History
- Google News: Dumpster Fire Knoxville
