A man is in custody following an early morning fire at an abandoned building near 12th Street and Broad Street in Augusta, according to the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies were on scene managing traffic when several witnesses approached and reported that a man, identified as Cameron Perkins, had confessed to starting the fire. They also said Perkins claimed he intended to return and set another fire the next day, according to authorities.
Deputies soon located Perkins on Broad Street based on the description provided. When they tried to detain him, he ran. Sergeant Ryan Digiacomo gave chase onto Jones Street and ordered Perkins to stop. When Perkins refused, Digiacomo deployed his Taser while running, striking Perkins in the back. Perkins then surrendered and was taken into custody without further incident.
Perkins is facing multiple charges including arson in the first degree, criminal damage to property in the second degree, terroristic threats, obstruction of a law enforcement officer, and impersonating a law enforcement officer. Authorities said Perkins claimed to be an FBI agent at the time of his arrest, which led to the impersonation charge.
Sheriff Eugene Brantley credited the swift arrest to the strong collaboration between deputies and members of the public. He said that while not every incident can be prevented, quick action by the community and law enforcement helps stop further harm and brings suspects to justice faster.
The investigation is ongoing. Officials say the arrest likely prevented another fire from occurring.
