Suspected Arsonist Caught By Fairfield Firefighters

FAIRFIELD, AL — Fairfield firefighters and Jefferson County deputies worked together in capturing a suspected arsonist. The incident occurred Wednesday afternoon in the 200 block of 52nd Avenue.

Sgt. Joni Money of the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office said the firefighters were returning to their station after extinguishing an earlier fire when they noticed a fire starting inside an enclosed porch of another home.

They stopped to extinguish the new fire and the encountered 21-year-old Christopher Ali on the porch of the abandoned home. Ali fled from the scene and the firefighters pursued. They were able to catch and detain Ali until deputies arrived, Money said.

Ali was charged with burglary and arson. His bonds total $31,000.

"This is an example of different departments working together to keep Jefferson County safe," Money said. "The firefighters went above and beyond to apprehend the subject responsible for this fire and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is thankful for their assistance in solving this crime. Continued cooperation between our public services, as well as with the community, will help to not only solve crimes, but to prevent them from ever happening."