Maryland man arrested on arson charges after two-year long investigation

A man is in custody after authorities say he was involved in setting a relative's vehicle on fire, in Queen Anne's County.

The Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal says on Wednesday, Michael Shufelt Jr., of Hurlock was arrested in connection with a fire that happened on Ferrick Road, in the area of Spaniard Neck Road, in Centreville. Authorities say the fire happened just after 3:20 AM on April 27. The Goodwill Volunteer Fire Company responded to the scene.

According to the report, firefighters put out a blaze within the passenger compartment of a 2000 Ford F-250 truck which was owned by a relative of Shufelt. Officials report that the fire was ruled an arson.

Authorities report that the two-year investigation concluded with the arrest of Shufelt at his Hurlock home. He was charged with arson second degree, malicious burning first degree, malicious destruction of property over $1,000.00 and unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.

He is currently being held without bond in Caroline County.

If convicted on all four charges, officials say Shufelt faces a maximum penalty of 33 years in prison and/or $42,500 in fines.