CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — A Chillicothe man faces charges of aggravated arson after a dramatic fire incident on Theatre Street.
On January 23, 2025, Chillicothe police responded to a fire at 1096 Theatre St. while receiving reports that a man had set both a van and the street itself on fire. Upon arrival, officers found the van engulfed in flames, with the fire spreading toward the residence. Witnesses reported seeing the suspect fleeing the scene.
Police identified the suspect as Robert Duffy, who matched the description provided by witnesses. Officers located Duffy walking on Renick Avenue and noted that his clothes were burnt, he smelled of smoke, and soot-covered his mouth and nose. Duffy admitted to being near the burning van but gave conflicting accounts of what happened, including a vague claim involving others trying to “get his check.”
Security footage from a neighbor captured a man, identified as Duffy, running from the van while carrying flaming items and throwing them into the street. No other individuals were seen approaching or leaving the scene, according to multiple surveillance videos.
The van’s owner confirmed that Duffy had been staying in the vehicle until recently being asked to leave. The van was equipped with an electric heater, but it was no longer operational.
Duffy was evaluated for burns and potential airway injuries before being transferred to OSU for further treatment. A lighter was found in his pocket, and his damaged clothing was collected as evidence.
The case has been forwarded to the Ross County Prosecutor’s Office for review, with two charges of aggravated arson recommended.