At approximately 7:19 this morning, April 24, 2024, the Riley County Communication Center received a call of a fire alarm in the 500 block of S. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.
Officers from RCPD and Quints 2 and 3 from the Manhattan Fire Department responded to the location. Upon arrival, fire crews discovered an activated fire sprinkler head on the fourth floor. Fire investigators determined an unknown item was ignited near the sprinkler head causing it to activate. Fire loss is estimated to be $500 with the area sustaining significant water damage.
Officers arrested Gerry Phillips, 32, of Manhattan on a probable cause offense of aggravated arson. Bond was set at $20,000. Phillips was detained at the time of this report. The investigation into this case is ongoing. Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.