Suspect identified in Centerville arson case, victims released from hospital

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SALT LAKE CITY — Centerville police have identified the suspect in a home invasion and arson that occurred on July 21.

Police identified the suspect as Ammon Jacob Woodhead, age 37, of Salt Lake City. Police arrested Woodhead at the scene of the fire, 329 E. 1825 N. He was hospitalized for five days under the guard of Utah Adult Probation and Parole.

The hospital released Woodhead on Tuesday. He was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail on a Board of Pardons warrant.

He is currently under arrest for having committed a residential burglary and two vehicle burglaries in a different area of Centerville just prior to entering the home and setting it on fire.

Centerville couple involved in home invasion, attack and arson describe the events

There is no connection between Woodhead and the residents of the home, according to police. The hospital has released the victims. 

Centerville Police Lieutenant Allen Ackerson said that charges against Woodhead are being reviewed by the David County Attorney’s Office. They could potentially include attempted aggravated murder, aggravated arson, aggravated assault, aggravated robbery, and assault on a police officer.

Background — what happened in that Centerville home?

Three elderly people were inside the home on July 21 when police say Woodhead walked into the house through an open garage and poured gasoline in several rooms. He reportedly said he intended to burn the house down, with the occupants inside.

The victims reported that he hit them in the head multiple times with his fists. Centerville police arrived, and the residents of the home were evacuated.

Police say home in Centerville set on fire by armed home-invasion suspect

Police said they arrested Woodhead after a struggle inside the burning home.

Six police officers were treated for smoke inhalation, and are reportedly doing well today.

 

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