A late-night confrontation in Jonesborough turned into a life-threatening inferno early Thursday morning, resulting in the arrest of a 32-year-old Gray man on a slew of violent felony charges.
Washington County Sheriff’s Deputies took Dustin Tayler Machen into custody after he allegedly doused both his mother and her home in gasoline before sparking a massive fire at 446 S. Pickens Bridge Road.
Sheriff Keith Sexton reported that when deputies arrived on the scene, the home was already completely engulfed in flames. The victim, who managed to escape the burning structure, told investigators that the attack happened as she was trying to leave the property.
According to her statement, Machen threw gasoline on her and the house, then smashed her cell phone to ensure she couldn’t call for emergency help.
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Despite her injuries and the loss of her phone, the woman was able to flee to a neighbor’s house to dial 911. She was later transported to a local hospital for treatment of burns to her arms.
Deputies located Machen near the scene shortly after the incident. He was arrested and transported to the Washington County Detention Center.
Machen now faces several serious charges, including attempted first-degree murder, aggravated arson, and attempted especially aggravated kidnapping. He is also charged with aggravated burglary and interference with a 911 call.
As of this morning, Machen is being held without bond while the investigation into the blaze continues.
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