A North Carolina woman is accused of intentionally setting her home on fire, resulting in the deaths of pets and damage to two other homes.
Theresa Allison Varner, 39, a High Point 911 Master Telecommunicator, allegedly set fire to her home on Grace Drive in Thomasville on Wednesday.
The residence is shared with her husband, a High Point police officer, their young children, and pets. While no humans were injured, the fire claimed the lives of their pets—a cat and a dog.
Several agencies, including the Thomasville Police Department, Thomasville Fire Department, North Carolina Department of Insurance, Davidson County Fire Marshal’s Office, and Davidson County District Attorney’s Office, conducted an investigation, as reported by Fox 8.
“Fire investigators determined the fire was intentionally set. Charges have been filed against an individual residing in the home. The individual is not employed by the High Point Police Department, and the incident did not occur within our jurisdiction. For further information, please contact the investigating agency,” stated Chief of Police Curtis Cheeks III of the High Point Police Department.
According to Fox 8, Varner faces charges including two counts of first-degree arson, second-degree arson, felonious burning of personal property, and two counts of felonious cruelty to animals.
Varner’s husband reportedly had no prior knowledge of her actions, as confirmed by the Thomasville Police Department, with no contradictory evidence.
Chief Curtis Cheeks released the following statement from the High Point Police Department on Friday:
“Earlier this week, firefighters responded to a fire at the residence of one of our patrol officers. Our officers, Executive Staff members, Peer Support Team, and Chaplains Team promptly visited the neighborhood and stood by the officer throughout the day.
They provided food, water, clothing, and emotional support, and collaborated with community partners to offer additional resources. Many community members also reached out, seeking ways to express their support.”
“My current focus as Chief of Police is on the well-being of our officer. We will continue to provide him with resources to meet his physical and emotional needs.”
Varner has been denied bond and is presently detained at Davidson County Jail.”
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[Featured image: Theresa Varner/Police Handout]
