Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – A Jonesboro woman is being held on a $100,000 cash/surety bond after police said she intentionally set fire to a home, causing thousands of dollars in damage.
According to an affidavit, on Dec. 16, Jonesboro police responded to the 3400 block of Quail Ridge in reference to a Crisis Intervention Team call. The victim, mother of 53–year-old Candice Anne Murray, told police that Murray suffers from schizophrenia and was exhibiting “concerning behavior.” When officers met with Murray, they said she appeared coherent and refused help, so no immediate threat was detected.
Some time later, officers responded to the same location for a house fire. Upon arrival, Jonesboro firefighters were on the scene, extinguishing the fire, and confirmed the home was unoccupied. A witness told officers they saw Murray dump trash, ignite the fire, and leave the scene in a vehicle, the affidavit stated.
The Jonesboro Fire Department and Fire Marshal’s Office investigated. They were able to locate the origin of the fire in a bedroom, but no competent ignition source was found in this area. Three samples were collected and submitted to the Arkansas State Crime Lab for analysis of ignitable liquids.
Fire Marshal John White said the fire appeared to be intentionally set and estimated damages to the home were between $75,000 and $100,000. The affidavit also noted that all the items inside the home were destroyed, estimating a loss of approximately $15,000.
The online roster for the Craighead County Detention Center says that Murray was arrested by deputies on Dec. 18. She appeared before District Judge Tommy Fowler on Dec. 22, where he found probable cause to charge her with arson (damage $500 or more).
In addition to the $100,000 bond, Murray was also ordered to have no contact with the victim and property, and she must wear a GPS ankle monitor upon release.
Murray’s next court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 23, 2026.
