Published: August 29, 2008 10:26 pm            

Son steals dad’s gun, sets house on fire

George C. Gardineer faces arson and burglary charges.

A 22-year-old man faces arson and burglary charges after he allegedly broke into his father’s house in Miami County, stole a handgun and ammunition, then set fire to the house.

Sgt. Mike Rogers of the Miami County Sheriff Department said George C. Gardineer, of Elwood, attempted to burn down his father’s home Tuesday by pouring an accelerant in the house and setting it on fire.

Deputies responded to the home of the suspect’s father home at 64146 E. 100 South in Miami County Tuesday on a report of a burglary and arson. Based on evidence obtained during the investigation, detectives focused on the homeowner’s son.

Deputies then obtained a search warrant for the younger Gardineer’s home in Elwood on Wednesday. Deputies then received information that he may be suicidal and may have barricaded himself inside his home, prompting the Madison County SWAT team to be called. SWAT members made entry into the home, but did not find Gardineer.

Shortly later, Gardineer surrendered to police after they negotiated with family members.

Police said Gardineer used landscaping stones to break a set of glass doors to gain entry into his father’s home.

Gardineer was carrying the stolen gun and ammunition when he surrendered.

Police did not say why Gardineer stole the gun and tried to burn down his father’s house.

He faces charges of arson and burglary and is being held at the Miami County jail.

        

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