DICKINSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations in connection with arson and theft.
Just before 5:30a.m. Wednesday, police and fire crews responded to a house fire in the 300 block of NE Eighth Street in Abilene, according to a media release.
Moments later, police and fire were dispatched to a second house fire in the 500 block of SE Sixth Street in Abilene. Investigators have determined both fires were intentionally set.
Just before 6a.m. that same morning deputies responded to a burglary at Liberty Store, 601 S. Buckeye Avenue.
Officers determined the two fires and burglary were connected and committed by the same suspect. Just before 8a.m., officer located and arrested 25-year-old Dai’Reese M. Gelinas of Abilene a home in the 100 block of S. Cedar Street.
He is being held on requested charges of aggravated arson, burglary, theft, criminal threat and criminal damage to property.
The fires caused. approximately $100,000 in damage. The burglary loss is estimated in excess of $500. The Kansas Highway Patrol and State Fire Marshal assisted with the investigation.