Sunman Man Charged with Arson

Charges stem from a camper fire that occurred May 27.

Tyler Downing. Photo provided.

(Ripley County, Ind.) - Ripley County Sheriff's deputies responded to a reported arson in progress on Wednesday, May 27 in the 9000 block of East 1300 North near Sunman. 

Upon arrival, deputies observed a 2017 Forest River Freedom Express camper fully engulfed in flames. 

During the course of the investigation, including witness interviews and evidence gathered at the scene, investigators developed information alleging that Tyler Downing, 33, of Sunman, allegedly set the camper on fire.

Downing reportedly fled the scene prior to law enforcement arrival. While deputies searched the area, he was located near the 1200 block of North Schneider Road and taken into custody without incident.

Downing was transported to the Ripley County Jail on preliminary charges of Arson (Level 4 Felony) and Criminal Mischief (Class A Misdemeanor)

Assisting the Ripley County Sheriff’s Office were the Indiana State Police, Sunman Fire Volunteer Department, Rescue 20 EMS, and Ripley County Communications.

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