NORTH LITTLE ROCK, AR – A string of suspicious fires plaguing the Oak Grove community and neighboring Maumelle has led to federal arson charges against Nathan James Hester, 37, of North Little Rock. A grand jury handed down a one-count indictment yesterday alleging Hester deliberately set fire to Jim’s Razorback Pizza and was involved in a dozen other blazes across Pulaski County.
The fires began surfacing in late September, targeting both occupied and unoccupied homes, a local church, and ultimately, the Maumelle pizza parlor. Disturbingly, the list of targets included the residence of Hester’s own mother, suggesting a deeply troubled individual with a penchant for destruction. Investigators have been working around the clock to connect the dots between the seemingly random incidents.
According to a complaint filed on October 25th, the manager of Jim’s Razorback Pizza arrived at work on October 20th to discover the back of the building engulfed in flames. The source? Coals deliberately placed against the exterior wall. Security footage captured a figure wearing a head covering lurking behind the building around the time the fire ignited. Witnesses quickly identified the person in the footage as Nathan James Hester, and another witness placed him near the scene.
The investigation, spearheaded by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), quickly expanded to encompass the other fires. The Maumelle Fire Department, Maumelle Police Department, Oak Grove Fire Department, and Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office all contributed resources to the probe, piecing together evidence that pointed towards a single suspect: Nathan James Hester. Authorities have remained tight-lipped about specific motives, citing the ongoing investigation.
While the indictment represents a significant step forward, it’s crucial to remember that it only contains allegations. Nathan James Hester is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Assistant United States Attorney Erin O’Leary is prosecuting the case, and a trial date has not yet been set. The community, however, is breathing a collective sigh of relief that a suspect has been identified and charged.
This case underscores the dangers of arson and the tireless work of federal and local agencies in protecting communities. The ATF’s New Orleans Field Division led the investigation, highlighting the agency’s commitment to tracking down those who weaponize fire. Residents are urged to report any suspicious activity to local authorities immediately. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly send a message about the consequences of such reckless and destructive behavior.
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