Man arrested in Kent Co. arson investigation

The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office says it has arrested a Magnolia man after an arson investigation Kent County. 

Dontelle Clary, 36, of Magnolia, was arrested and charged with two felonies.  

According to the report, the investigation started after a house fire was reported on Tuesday night, around 10PM, at a manufactured home on McKinley Circle.

The Magnolia Fire Company responded to the call and was able to put out the fire quickly, as it was contained to the outside of the home.  

Deputy State Fire Marshals investigated the origin and cause of the fire and found the fire to have been intentionally set. Investigators also say they determined the fire was related to an earlier domestic dispute that led to Clary as the primary suspect, but officials could not find him right away.

An arrested warrant was obtained for Clary in the early morning on Wednesday, and shortly after, officials say he was found assaulted on Mckinley Circle in the area where the fire had happened.  

Clary was taken by ambulance to Kent General Hospital for injuries he had gotten during the assault, and was admitted for further treatment.  

According to the report, Clary was released from KGH on Thursday, and taken into custody by Deputy Fire Marshals.  

Clary was arraigned at JP Court #2 and committed to the James T. Vaughn Correctional Center  in default of a $20,000 secured bail after being charged with the felonies of first degree arson and first degree reckless endangering.

Officials say the fire caused about $500 in damage,no injuries were sustained as a result of the fire, and the fire did not displace the home’s occupant.