Arrest made in arson at Charlotte nursing home

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A man is facing charges after investigators say he intentionally started a fire at a west Charlotte nursing home. 

Charlotte Fire responded to an alarm at the Barringer Gardens retirement home on Dr. Carveri Drive around 2:30 a.m. Tuesday. Two crews were immediately dispatched to the fire, which was controlled in a short time. The facility’s sprinkler system activated, helping contain the fire, officials said. The fire caused an estimated $15,000 in damage. 

Investigators determined the fire was deliberately set. Johnny Mack was identified as a suspect in the case. Based on evidence presented by Charlotte Fire’s investigative unit, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police arrested Mack and charged him with first-degree arson and malicious damage by use of an explosive or incendiary device to occupied property. Mack made his first appearance in court on Monday and is being held without bond. 

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It’s unclear Mack’s connection, if any, to the nursing home. 

Charlotte Fire said it’s the second arson arrest in the past week. Richard Spainhour was charged with arson for setting a fire on Susanna Drive on Aug. 13, police said. That fire caused an estimated $76,000 in damage. 

Anyone with information about either incident is asked to call Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600. 

RELATED: South Charlotte woman dies more than a month after apartment intentionally set on fire, police say

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