A Michigan man faces serious charges after allegedly driving over 700 miles to set fire to a Pennsylvania home where a man had been communicating with his ex-girlfriend. Authorities report that 21-year-old Harrison Jones from Rockford, Michigan, was arrested following the incident that occurred last week in Bensalem, Pennsylvania.
According to the Bensalem Police Department, the fire broke out in a residence occupied by six individuals, all of whom were hospitalized due to smoke inhalation and other injuries. Tragically, the family’s two dogs, Trey and Jett, perished in the blaze. Fortunately, the family was able to escape thanks to the quick actions of a mother who heard unusual noises, discovered the fire, and helped her family evacuate, with some members jumping from second-story windows to escape the flames.
Bensalem Public Safety Director William McVey praised the mother’s bravery, stating, "It’s a miracle they all survived," and credited her for ensuring her family’s safety. Investigators quickly determined that the fire was intentionally set, prompting a thorough investigation.
Surveillance footage captured a black sedan pulling up to the home around 5 a.m. on the day of the fire. The suspect was seen exiting the vehicle and lingering near the back of the house for over ten minutes before fleeing as an explosion erupted, engulfing the home in flames.
Two days later, police traced the vehicle back to Jones, leading to an arrest warrant and his subsequent capture. Investigators noted that Jones had burns on his arm, which they are examining as part of their inquiry. Reports indicate that Jones is the ex-boyfriend of a woman who had been in an online relationship with a male resident of the Bensalem home since 2023. Although a motive is still under investigation, court documents suggest that Jones had intended to confront this man, as he was supposed to drive his ex-girlfriend to meet him at a hotel.
Jones has been charged with six counts of attempted homicide, arson, and related offenses. He is currently awaiting extradition back to Pennsylvania. In the aftermath of the fire, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the family, who lost everything in the blaze, including their pets. The fundraiser highlights the family’s recent struggles, including the mother’s battle with cancer, emphasizing the profound loss they have endured.
This incident has raised serious concerns about the dangers of unchecked jealousy and the lengths individuals may go to in response to perceived threats to their relationships. Bucks County District Attorney Jennifer Schorn condemned Jones’s actions, stating, "This family suffered such inconceivable loss. This defendant’s actions are incomprehensible, and he will be held accountable."