Jefferson County, Colorado ? The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is investigating an intentionally set fire to a house located at 14446 W. 57th Place. The fire started sometime around midnight on Tuesday, April 29.
The homeowner, James Crowder, called 911 at 1:37 a.m., reporting that his house was on fire. Mr. Crowder told responding deputies he awoke around 11:30 p.m. to loud noises in the house. As he was approaching the kitchen, Crowder claims he was assaulted from behind and knocked unconscious. After an undetermined amount of time he was able to leave the house as it was filling with smoke. Mr. Crowder told deputies he again lost consciousness in the front yard. He was able to call 911 from his cell phone when he regained consciousness. Crowder was transported to a nearby hospital with minor injuries.
Fire investigators from the Arvada Fire Department and the Jefferson County Sheriff?s Office have determined the fire was intentionally set on a lower level of the home. Due to the extent of the fire damage the house must be stabilized before the crime scene can be examined in more detail. Investigators are talking with neighbors and other people associated with Mr. Crowder.
No suspect or exact cause of the fire has been identified at this time. Additional information will be released as the investigation unfolds.
