We have more news on a car fire that was reported in front of the Murfreesboro Motel on Broad Street Monday Morning. You may recall when the fire department arrived on scene, they discovered a 1996 Honda Civic with the front end engulfed in flames. Crews extinguished the fire and were told by witnesses that someone was seen running from the burning car.

WGNS confirmed that shortly after the fire was reported, Murfreesboro Police arrested 33-year old Amilido Rodriguez (pictured) who owned the car. He is not said to be a suspect in the possible arson, but he was wanted in LaVergne for “Rape” and “Sexual Battery” charges. It is not known if that alleged crime had anything to do with his car being set on fire.

No arrests have been made in the actual car fire at this point and the Murfreesboro Fire and Rescue Department is investigating the case. As for Rodriguez, he is due in Circuit Court on April 21, 2014. He is currently being held under a $250,000 bond.

According to Assistant Fire Marshal Carl Peas, the vehicle fire was intentionally set and there is a person of interest. Peas is requesting the public’s assistance in locating the suspect.

“The person of interest is believed to be a Hispanic male, approximately 5’6” in height, and will have visible burns, most likely on his legs and feet,” said Peas. “The individual’s shoes, socks, and pants were left at the scene,” he continued. 

Do you know who started the car fire?

If you have any information regarding this case, please contact MFRD’s Fire Marshal’s Office at 615-849-2605 or Rutherford County Crime Stoppers at 615-893-STOP (7867) Monday through Friday 8:00 am-4:30 pm. Callers will remain anonymous and cash rewards of up to $1,000.00 are offered for information leading to the arrest of persons of interest.

Source:

Murfreesboro Police Arrest Report
Murfreesboro Fire and Rescue, Ashley McDonald
Rutherford County Sheriff's Office