MD Man, 86, Charged After Setting Neighbor's Car On Fire: Authorities

CECIL COUNTY, MD — A Cecil County man faces multiple charges after state fire officials said he purposely set his neighbor's SUV on fire.

Phillip A. Fleming, 86, of Conowingo, is charged with arson and malicious destruction of property following the Monday incident, according to the Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office.

Authorities said that around 9:15 p.m., a Water Witch fire crew responded to a reported vehicle fire on Canning House Lane. When crew members arrived, they found a 2019 BMW X3 on fire in front of the home's garage.

Authorities said firefighters could contain the fire inside the vehicle; however, the fire caused extensive damage, likely rendering the SUV a total loss.

Following the fire, investigators learned Fleming and his neighbors were involved in a long-standing dispute. As a result, the BMW owner's girlfriend obtained a peace order against Fleming earlier this year.

Investigators said Fleming trespassed onto his neighbor's property and set the SUV on fire. He then walked into a wooded area behind his home to elude police, authorities said.

After a brief search, authorities located Fleming and took him into custody, according to the state fire marshal.

Fleming was also charged with violating a peace order, authorities said. He was taken to the Cecil County Detention Center, where he is awaiting a bond hearing.