KANSAS CITY —Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson announced charges against two men in connection with a fire that took place at a business in northeast Kansas City earlier this month.
Michael B. Washburn, 47, is charged with 2nd Degree Arson and Aggravated Fleeing a Stop or Detention.
Matthew L. Elder, 41, is charged with one count of 2nd Degree Arson.
According to court records, the Kansas City Fire Department responded to a business on fire on Sept. 7. The fire was ruled as an intentional act with estimated damage at $15,000. A blue Ford F150 was seen in the area at the time of the fire. Elder allegedly ignited the fire and then entered the passenger seat of the F150 and left the area.
On Sept. 9, Kansas City police located the blue Ford F150 and attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but the driver refused to stop. The driver, later identified as Washburn, continued to flee into Kansas City, Kansas, where he eventually stopped and was taken into custody.
A Jackson County judge set Elder’s bond at $25,000 cash only and Washburn is being held without bond.