Incident Overview
Authorities in Kitsap County, Washington, have charged 47-year-old Shawn Hinson with first-degree arson and second-degree assault following a bizarre incident on August 4 that resulted in the total destruction of a residential home and a detached garage. The investigation centers on surveillance footage from a Ring camera, which captured a man identified by court documents as Hinson operating a golf cart while accompanied by a dog and wielding two torches, including a high-intensity weed torch.
The incident occurred in the 2700 block of Locker Road SE in Port Orchard. According to the homeowner, who was inside the residence when the fire began, a notification from his home security system alerted his son, who subsequently called his father to wake him, potentially saving his life. The homeowner reported that the fire claimed his entire residence, a new vehicle, and an extensive collection of tools.
The Confrontation
Neighbors Anita and Dan Carlson, who witnessed the scene from across the street at approximately 5:30 a.m., intervened as the situation escalated. Anita Carlson initially suspected a mechanical issue with the golf cart when she observed the suspect performing maneuvers in the driveway. However, the situation turned violent when Dan Carlson approached the suspect to confront him.
According to court filings and eyewitness accounts, Hinson claimed to be affiliated with the fire department when confronted. Dan Carlson reported that Hinson attempted to strike him with a propane torch, leaving a visible mark on his clothing, before driving the golf cart toward him. Law enforcement arrested Hinson shortly after the confrontation.
Legal Stakes and Context
In official court filings, the defendant cited the consumption of marijuana edibles and Jack Daniel’s whiskey prior to the incident. Responding deputies noted that Hinson struggled to maintain a coherent or direct conversation during the initial investigation. The homeowner, who has no known prior connection to Hinson, emphasized the personal toll of the crime, noting that the suspect lived approximately a quarter-mile away.
Hinson remains in custody, with a formal court hearing scheduled for August 24. First-degree arson is a serious felony in Washington state, carrying significant potential penalties. The case has drawn local attention due to the unusual nature of the suspect’s transport and the randomness of the destruction.