Garner police charged Reginald L. Morrison with first degree arson late Saturday after investigating an early-morning fire at Forest Hills Apartments on Saturday.
The fire damaged several units in the south end of a building and spread to all three floors, including the attic. Two residents were taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation. One firefighter needed medical care after the floor he was standing on collapsed. All were treated and released.
Police say Morrison, 29, started the fire with gasoline or another flammable liquid. According to lead investigator Grant Davis, Morrison had an existing or previous relationship with the owner of Apartment D-108.
"The evidence suggests the fire began in unit D-108," said Davis.
Davis received assistance from the Wake County fire marshal and CCBI in analyzing evidence.
An arrest warrant was issued for Morrison late Saturday night. Garner police issued a nationwide lookout to law enforcement agencies. Morrison was also listed as "dangerous" because of his criminal history of assaults and resisting arrest.
Davis said Morrison turned himself in to local authorities in Maryland.
Morrison had previous addresses in Holly Springs and Charlotte.
A relief fund has been set up for victims of the fire. Checks can be made payable to Forest Hills Apartments Fire Victim's Relief Fund at North State Bank. The address is 835 Highway 70 West, Garner, N.C. 27520. The phone number is 919-661-2265.
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