Northwest Indiana man accused of setting fire to jail lobby caught in Tinley Park
by: Alonzo Small
Posted: Jun 9, 2023 / 03:14 PM CDT
Updated: Jun 9, 2023 / 03:34 PM CDT
CROWN POINT, Ind. — A man who Lake County Indiana Sheriffs say intentionally set fire to the lobby of a Northwest Indiana jail was arrested in southwest suburban Tinley Park on Friday, authorities said.
Officers in Tinley Park arrested 26-year-old Ryan Andrews of Merrillville days after deputies released surveillance video of the June 5 incident that allegedly showed him spraying an accelerant on the floor of the Lake County jail.
Despite the attempt to get flames to spread, arriving emergency personnel say the fire was already out upon arrival.
No one was injured.
Andrews, who fled the scene in a blue SUV, is currently being held at a facility in Illinois pending extradition to Indiana.
Arrest warrant issued for Merrillville man who allegedly set fire to Lake County Jail lobby
By FOX 32 Digital Staff
PublishedJune 8, 2023 3:18PM
Indiana sheriff seeks man who set fire to Lake County Jail lobby
The Lake County Jail in Indiana faced a disturbing incident on Monday when a man intentionally started a fire in the facilitys lobby.
MERRILLVILLE, Ind. – The Lake County Sheriff in Indiana is actively searching for a man who they say purposely set fire to the lobby of the Lake County Jail earlier this week.
The disturbing incident was captured on surveillance video.
Authorities say 26-year-old Ryan Andrews of Merrillville is responsible for starting the fire in the lobby of the jail on Monday.
According to the sheriff, Andrews entered the lobby shortly before noon carrying a jug believed to contain some form of accelerant. He then doused the lobby with the liquid before igniting it and fleeing the scene.
The fire was put out quickly, preventing any significant damage or injuries.
Ryan Andrews | Lake County Sheriff
Andrews is described as a Black man, standing about 5-foot-10, weighing 162 pounds, with brown hair, black eyes and a medium athletic build. He may have a goatee beard and short afro.
The sheriff says he should be considered dangerous.
If anyone sees Andrews, they’re urged to call 911 immediately and not approach him.
