Two Arrested for Arson in Connection with Federalsburg Shed Fire
Image Courtesy of Federalsburg Volunteer Fire Company
FEDERALSBURG, Md. – Two men have been arrested in connection with an incendiary shed fire that occurred in August at a Federalsburg apartment complex.
On the morning of Friday, Aug. 7, at 5:00 a.m., the Federalsburg Volunteer Fire Company and surrounding departments responded to a reported shed fire at the Federal Manor Apartment Complex, located on Routzahn Lane. The structure was a 12-by-12-foot maintenance shed used for storage and as a workshop for the apartment complex. According to the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal, 25 firefighters responded and successfully brought the fire under control within 30 minutes. No injuries were reported. Afterwards, Deputy State Fire Marshals determined the fire was intentionally set on the exterior.
Image Courtesy of Federalsburg Volunteer Fire Company
During the ensuing investigation, authorities identified 36-year-old Clayton John Baynard III, of Federalsburg, and 36-year-old Reuben Jerome Johnson Jr., of New Castle, Delaware, as the individuals allegedly responsible for the fire. Investigators determined the fire was connected to a dispute involving a vehicle that had been towed from the apartment complex. Investigators allege Baynard intentionally set the fire at Johnson’s request.
Clayton Baynard III
Investigators obtained an arrest warrant for Baynard on Aug. 28. On Sept. 10, Maryland State Police arrested Baynard and transported him to the Easton Barrack. He was charged with second-degree arson, first-degree malicious burning, and malicious destruction of property over $1,000. He is currently being held at the Caroline County Detention Center.
Reuben Johnson, Jr.
As the investigation continued, a second arrest warrant for Johnson was obtained on Oct. 1. Johnson was subsequently arrested and charged with second-degree arson, conspiracy to commit second-degree arson, first-degree malicious burning, and malicious destruction of property over $1,000. He is being held at the Dorchester County Detention Center.
