EASTPOINTE (WWJ) - One Macomb County man is facing arson charges after officials say he allegedly started a blaze at an apartment complex on Sunday night.
Brian Austin Harvey, 31, of Eastpointe, was taken into custody on suspected arson which left three families without a home, the Eastpointe Police and Fire Department announced Monday night.
Officials said crews were dispatched to a reported fire at an apartment building on 10 Mile Road and Dodge Street around 8:15 p.m. on Aug. 14.
When they arrived on scene, authorities said one of the units on the upper floor was "completely engulfed in flames."
"Our firefighters went to work making sure everyone was safe and aggressively attacked the fire," officials said.
Eastpointe Police and Fire Department
Eastpointe Police and Fire Department
A preliminary investigation into the cause of the blaze ultimately revealed Harvey as a suspect and police immediately took him into custody.
"Fortunately, there were no injuries," the fire department said, "Unfortunately, three families had to temporarily vacate until repairs are made."
Authorities said crews from Roseville Fire Department, Saint Clair Shores Fire Department, and the Warren Fire Department assisted in tackling the blaze.
"It is always nice to depend on our neighboring departments. All in all, our firefighters did a great job containing the fire without significant damage to the other units," Eastpointe fire officials added.
Harvey was arraigned Monday on Arson in the 1st Degree in the 38th District County. A judge set his bond at $100,000 cash surety only -- if he posts bond, he is ordered to wear a GPS tether.
Officials said the fire remains under investigation.
