Columbia firefighter, wanted for questioning in fatal arson, suspended without pay

Columbia city manager Teresa Wilson announced late Saturday the Columbia firefighter indentified as a person of interest in connection to a deadly arson has been placed on unpaid “investigatory suspension.”

Earlier Saturday, Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook announced the investigation into an arson fire that claimed the life of apartment resident, True Dent Henderson, 80, on Jan. 29 led to an active Columbia firefighter.

After being contacted by law enforcement Saturday, the firefighter refused to be questioned and requested an attorney, according to a news release from the Columbia Police Department.

Police were hoping to question the man to determine what information he can provide about the fatal fire at Plantation Court Apartments on South Saluda Avenue, in the Rosewood area.

Investigators believe the fire was intentionally set. The State Law Enforcement Division is assisting the Columbia police and fire departments with the investigation.

Anyone with information about the whereabouts of the person of interest is asked to anonymously call Crimestoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC, or text “TIPSC” to 274637. You can also submit tips at www.midlandscrimestoppers.com.

This story was originally published February 4, 2017 at 1:14 PM with the headline "Columbia firefighter, wanted for questioning in fatal arson, suspended without pay."