PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. -- Deputies have made an arrest in three arson cases in Port Charlotte Sunday night.
21-year-old Brandon Wilson was arrested Tuesday and booked into the Charlotte County Jail. The Charlotte County Sheriff's Office confirmed Wilson is the son of the late Sergeant Mike Wilson. Sgt. Wilson was fatally shot on the scene of a domestic disturbance in 2013. Charlotte County Sheriff's Office is not releasing further comment at this time.
According to the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office, Wilson is responsible for fires at three unoccupied structures, all within a short time frame Sunday night. The fires were on Lorette Avenue, Mayville Avenue, and McManaway Avenue.
Detectives say a witness provided photos of a silver Kia with several distinguishable features in the area of the fires. Registration records led detectives to Wilson, who was pulled over by deputies Tuesday afternoon.
A shotgun was located in Wilson's vehicle, a violation of his probation. A gas can was also found in his possession. Investigators say Wilson also had singed hair on his hands.
No injuries were reported in the fires, but the smell of gasoline was present at all three.
Wilson is charged with Arson of Dwelling, two counts of Malicious Land Burning, and four counts of Violation of Probation or Community Control.
Investigations into the other arsons occurring during the same period and over the past weekend are still active and ongoing. Witnesses, or anyone who feels they may have information on these events, are encouraged to call in to the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office (941-639-2101) or contact Crime Stoppers(1-800-780-TIPS).
