Arson Suspected in Fort Smith Fire

A fire that damaged a Fort Smith home is suspected to be an act of arson, according to police.

Police and firefighters were called to 4929 Speer Street just after 11 p.m. Wednesday.

“If anybody knows anything, please call,” said Vickie Auterson, the homeowner. “I don’t know why anybody would do this to me. I’m as nice as can be. I wouldn’t hurt anybody.”

The fire had almost burnt itself out by the time the fire department arrived and damage was contained to the living room and a bedroom, according to Sgt. Daniel Grubbs with the Fort Smith Police Department.

“They’re a very horrible person and they should never do this to anybody,” said Auterson.

Fire Marshall Chris Driggers determined the fire appeared to be arson after they found that a large rock had been thrown through the front door, an accelerant had been poured on the floor, and then ignited.

“It’s really bad,” said Auterson. “I mean the house is a total loss to me.”

Samples from the scene will be sent to the Arkansas State Crime Lab for testing, Grubbs said.

“They have not been able to provide anyone that they would believe would be a potential suspect, any issues with certain persons,” said Grubbs.

Police have interviewed the homeowners. They were not home at the time of the fire, according to police.

There are no suspects at this time.

If you have any information on this crime, call the River Valley Crime Stoppers at (479) 78-CRIME.