Executive Summary
- Calvin Tucker, 54, was arrested on December 16 in connection with an intentionally set fire in West Salem.
- The October 3 fire blocked exits, forcing residents to jump from second-story balconies to escape.
- Three pets died in the blaze, leading to multiple counts of first-degree animal abuse.
- Tucker faces four counts of first-degree arson and reckless endangering charges.
Police in Salem, Oregon, have arrested a 54-year-old man in connection with an October apartment complex fire that killed three pets and forced residents to leap from balconies to escape. Calvin Tucker was taken into custody on December 16 following a felony arson investigation, according to law enforcement officials.
The blaze occurred on October 3 at a four-plex located in the 200 block of Stoneway Drive Northwest in West Salem. According to reports from Salem Fire personnel and patrol officers, the fire originated in the stairwell, effectively blocking the primary exit route for residents on the upper floors. First responders noted that several individuals were compelled to jump from second-story balconies to evade the smoke and flames. While aggressive fire suppression efforts contained the blaze to the stairwell and minimized structural damage, three pets perished in the incident.
Investigators with the Felony Crimes Unit and Salem Fire Deputy Fire Marshals determined the fire was intentionally set. Authorities identified Tucker as a person of interest early in the inquiry. Following an interview in which Tucker provided statements, investigators established probable cause linking him to the scene. He was arrested without incident with assistance from patrol officers.
Procedural Next Steps
Calvin Tucker has been lodged at the Polk County Jail and faces serious felony charges, including four counts of arson in the first degree, three counts of animal abuse in the first degree, and reckless endangering. As the investigation remains active, prosecutors will likely review the evidence gathered by fire marshals to solidify the case for the upcoming judicial proceedings. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
