Apopka police arrests shed arsonist

A man was arrested in the middle of the night leading into Saturday, Jan. 24, in Apopka after setting fire to a shed and attempting to flee. 

According to the Apopka Police Department, it all started due to a reported dispute at a residence. 

It is said Richard Arthur Jr. Snow pushed a woman during the incident and threatened to kill her if she contacted the police. Officers were called and upon arrival, they saw Snow inside a backyard shed that was converted into a living space and shared with a roommate. 

According to the police department, Snow refused to comply with officers' commands to exit the shed and instead, he set it on fire while still inside. 

Once the shed became engulfed by flames, Snow climbed out of a window and attempted to flee. 

Officers quickly apprehended him and took him into custody. 

The police department said nobody was seriously injured but nearby residents had to be awakened and told to evacuate due to the fire. 

Snow was charged with first-degree arson, battery on law enforcement, battery with a prior conviction, tampering with a witness and/or victim, and resisting an officer without violence. 

The Apopka Police Department thanked patrol officers who were on scene for their professionalism and "swift actions," preventing further damage and harm.