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New Homes Burned At Subdivision; Arson Suspected

6 Homes Catch Fire In 15 Months At Madison Subdivision

POSTED: 4:31 pm CDT August 15, 2008
UPDATED: 12:04 am CDT August 16, 2008

Investigators believe a serial arsonist has returned to a Madison subdivision after a hiatus.

Video: Serial Arsonist Strikes Subdivision Again

A home in the neighborhood that was under construction burned this month, making it the sixth home to catch fire in 15 months. Residents believe the arsonist who once plagued them has returned.

"It's been scarier and more frightening than anything I've ever experienced," said neighbor Lygia Williams.

Eleven months ago, five homes that were under construction and a trailer burned. After this happened, builders put a 10-month halt on new homes.

In July, construction started on a new home, and shortly thereafter it caught fire.

"It was like there was smoke, and then the whole house went up in a big fireball," said Williams.

Neighbors believe the same arsonist is back, and there are several similarities in the fires. Most have happened in the morning, all are in the same section of the neighborhood and none have been inhabited at the time.

"One day, it may not be an empty home, so we're very concerned about that," said neighbor Pamela Hampton.

Lygia Williams' home has been damaged twice by nearby flames from these fires. Residents are concerned about their property value and insurance.

"My insurance was dropped and ended up getting high-risk insurance that is really exorbitant," said Williams.

After residents drafted a petition asking for protection of their homes, a developer brought in security this week.

"I love this house. I love this lot, but if I could get out of here, I would," said Williams.

The Nashville Fire Department would not discuss its investigation but confirmed it believes an arsonist is at work. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is helping in the investigation.

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