Man Charged with Arson After Iron County Wildfire

Iron Co., Mo. (KFMO) - An off-duty firefighter spotted a man walking away from a burning forest area in Iron County on Sunday, leading to the arrest of 44-year-old Jeremy Crocker. Authorities say the firefighter contacted law enforcement while following Crocker, who later admitted to starting the fire when confronted by officers.

According to investigators, Crocker set multiple fires using a cigarette lighter, one of which spread across an acre of U.S. Forest Service land, causing nearly $10,000 in damages. He allegedly claimed he was conducting an “experiment” to teach children about fire safety.

Crocker faces a felony charge of knowingly burning or exploding and has been denied bond. If convicted, he could face up to four years in prison and a $10,000 fine.