Suspected Serial Arson Claimed He Was Actually Trying to Prevent Nonexistent 'Black Man' from Starting Fire

A 26-year-old man in Antioch, Tennessee, has been charged with arson after allegedly setting three fires in one night at an apartment complex and blaming the crime on a nonexistent "Black man."

Joshua Spain was arrested on Dec. 14 and faces charges of arson, making a false report, and disorderly conduct following a string of fires on December 5 and 6, WKRN reported.

The incidents began with two dumpster fires in the parking lot of an apartment complex on the 400 block of Arbor Place. Hours later, firefighters returned to the scene to battle a larger blaze engulfing an apartment building. No injuries were reported.

Spain initially took responsibility for the dumpster fires but claimed the apartment one was set by a Black man using an antifreeze bottle and lighter. In a call to 911, Spain alleged he attempted to stop the man, who then assaulted him.

However, video surveillance from the scene contradicted his account. Images showed a cowboy-hat clad man matching Spain's description setting the fires and adding fuel to the flames. Investigators found no evidence of the alleged Black man Spain described.

Spain was captured on video returning to the fire scene multiple times, carrying cardboard and other items to feed the flames. Authorities determined that Spain's account was fabricated and charged him based on video evidence, witness statements, and his own admissions.

Spain is currently held at Metro Jail on a $47,500 bond.