LA CROSSE, WI — Authorities say an arrest has been made in connection with multiple fires reported Tuesday in La Crosse and Onalaska. Investigators identified 37-year-old David P. Sheldon as the person responsible after a coordinated, multi-agency probe.
Emergency crews and law enforcement responded to several fires that were reported close together in time and location. Two fires were reported around 7:10 p.m. at 3800 State Road 16 in La Crosse, and additional fires were reported in Onalaska.
How investigators tied him to the fires
Before the fires, police investigated an entry and theft report at Planet Fitness on State Road 16. Authorities said a vehicle was entered and a vehicle key was taken, and Sheldon was identified as a person of interest in that case.
Sheldon was taken into custody Wednesday morning, and officials said he also had an unrelated warrant for his arrest. While he was in custody, investigators determined he was the individual responsible for the fires.
Charges filed in the case
Sheldon faces charges of disorderly conduct, arson of property other than a building, and theft. The case stems from the fires reported Tuesday and the earlier theft investigation tied to the same suspect.
Officials did not provide additional details about the specific damage from each fire. The investigation involved several local agencies working together.
Fire chief cites public risk
La Crosse Fire Chief Jeff Schott said arson puts both residents and first responders at serious risk. He said the arrest reflects what can happen when fire and police agencies share resources and work together.
The arrest was announced Friday in a release. Authorities did not say whether any additional suspects are being investigated.
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