On Saturday, June 8, 2024 at approximately 10:04 AM, CCSO received a report of an explosion near the corner of Well Field Rd and Coconino Way in the Hopi Hills residential subdivision, located near the eastern boundary of Coconino County, west of Winslow, AZ.
Winslow Fire Department responded to the scene, which was located at an unoccupied parcel in the neighborhood. Fire officials reported finding an unoccupied structure as well as surrounding brush on fire, which they were able to extinguish.
A deputy arrived and began to investigate, working with fire officials, reviewing evidence and receiving information from citizens in the area. The deputy learned about a suspicious vehicle seen leaving the area at the time of the incident.
The deputy was able to locate the vehicle in the area and make contact with the occupant. The occupant was interviewed and ultimately determined to be a suspect in this investigation. The suspect was ultimately placed under arrest in connection with this incident and booked into Coconino County Detention Facility. Charges at booking included Arson of an Unoccupied Structure, Endangerment, Aggravated Driving Under the Influence, Possession of a Dangerous Drug and Violation of a Fire Ban.
The suspect has been identified as Ariel Robertson of Winslow.
