SOUTH BRUNSWICK, N.J. – A man has been arrested on charges of aggravated arson after allegedly setting fire to his girlfriend’s parent’s home following an argument early Tuesday morning.
The incident occurred at approximately 3:00 a.m. at a residence on Old Beekman Road. Authorities say Leonard Jones IV, 50, had a dispute with his girlfriend before setting the house ablaze. Jones reportedly warned his girlfriend to call the fire department just before the fire broke out.
South Brunswick police were already familiar with the residence, having responded to noise complaints earlier in the evening. Officers were en route to the home following a 911 call when they received a second call reporting the fire.
Boyfriend charged with setting fire to girlfriend’s parents home. Three residents escaped the fire.#Arson pic.twitter.com/rtdaS7YJDv
— So Brunswick PD (@SoBrunswickPD) September 3, 2024
When first responders arrived, the fire had spread through the roof. Over 70 firefighters from local and neighboring departments battled the two-alarm fire, which took several hours to bring under control. All four residents, including Jones, escaped without injury.
Jones was arrested at the scene and charged with aggravated arson and domestic violence. He was taken to the Middlesex County Correction Center and is awaiting his first court appearance.
The investigation remains ongoing, with South Brunswick police and fire officials leading the efforts. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the South Brunswick Police Department.
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