Approximately three weeks ago, firefighters from the Wesley Chapel, Stallings, and Charlotte Fire Departments responded to a Weddington neighborhood after local residents called 911 to report a fire at a large three-story home under construction. Firefighters arrived and confirmed that the residence, which was nearing completion, was fully engulfed in flames. Firefighters battled the flames for approximately six hours before the fire was declared controlled. 

In order to investigate the cause of the fire, the Union County Fire Marshal’s Office was contacted and responded to the scene. During the initial investigation, Assistant Fire Marshals classified the residential fire as being intentionally set based on evidence found at the scene. As a result of the Fire Marshal’s findings, UCSO detectives specially trained in fire investigations were contacted and launched a criminal investigation into this matter. 

Over the last three weeks, UCSO detectives have relentlessly pursued all leads related to this intentionally set fire and continued to work alongside the Union County Fire Marshal’s Office. As a result of their hard work and dedication, detectives have identified, located, and charged a total of four suspects. 

Three of the four suspects involved in this intentionally set fire are under the age of eighteen years old and are classified as juveniles. Based upon “Raise the Age” legislation enacted in 2019, these three offenders must be charged via petitions through the Department of Juvenile Justice and their identities cannot be released. 

Yesterday, UCSO deputies arrested the fourth suspect, 18-year-old Thomas L. Brewer of Wesley Chapel, who has been charged with Felony Breaking and Entering and Felony Burning a Building Under Construction. Brewer was taken before a local judicial official and received a secured bond of $25,000.00. Brewer no longer remains in the custody of the Union County Jail. 

Investigators currently estimate that the damage to this residence caused by the fire is in excess of $2,000,000.00. 

Union County Sheriff Eddie Cathey adds “The lives of numerous first responders were put at risk during the initial response and containment of this intentionally set fire. In addition to the lives put at risk, these suspects took a family’s future home away from them through this malicious act. I am proud of the tireless investigative efforts that went into this case which resulted in the suspects being identified and criminally charged for their actions.” 

Point of contact for this press release is Lt. James Maye (704)506-6843