North Little Rock, Arkansas – A string of house fires in North Little Rock has left families shaken and authorities working to bring a suspect to justice. The fires, which took place early Monday morning, prompted a swift investigation after security cameras captured the suspect in the act.
Saulane Watson, who lives in one of the affected homes, recalled the terrifying moments. “I was sleeping with my babies when that happened, and that’s terrifying,” she said. Watson said she noticed flames around 7:40 a.m., sparking panic for her and her children. Officials later confirmed that surveillance footage at her home played a crucial role in identifying the suspect.
According to Watson, the suspect, later identified as Marcus Roy Jackson Hensley, intentionally set fire to items in her home. “He doused the playpen and the car seats with gasoline. He lit it on fire. He doused the table, too. And lit it on fire,” she said. The deliberate nature of the act alarmed neighbors and authorities alike, as Hensley allegedly targeted multiple homes in the area.
Just across the train tracks from Watson’s residence, another fire was started. Rupert Dobbs, a resident of that home, said he was awakened by the sound of a brick smashing through his window. “My neighbor helped put out the fire that had been set on my front porch, and I made it out of the home safely,” Dobbs said. Fortunately, all occupants managed to escape without injury.
A third home was also targeted, though it was unoccupied at the time. While no one was harmed, officials noted that the damage left behind was evidence of the arson. The repeated attacks have left the community concerned and families emotionally scarred. Watson reflected on the impact, saying, “The aftermath is hurtful. It’s something my family won’t forget.”
Authorities acted quickly to apprehend Hensley, who was charged in connection with the fires. North Little Rock Fire Captain Gary Williams confirmed that Hensley was arrested following the investigation. The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office reported that Hensley was booked into jail, released, and given a court date of November 6. He faces three counts of reckless burning.
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The use of security cameras proved instrumental in connecting Hensley to the crimes, underscoring the growing role of technology in public safety. Investigators continue to review evidence to ensure all affected homes are accounted for and to determine whether additional charges may be warranted.
As North Little Rock residents come to terms with the recent fires, families like Watson’s and Dobbs’ are left rebuilding not just their homes, but their sense of safety. The community remains on alert, hoping that swift justice will provide some measure of closure after a frightening ordeal.
