LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — A Las Vegas woman faces charges in connection with an apartment fire that displaced at least 32 people and caused $2 million in damages this week.
Clark County Fire investigators determined the fire at 4255 W. Viking Road was caused by arson.
On Tuesday, fire officials announced the arrest of 41-year-old Mariza Arteage Muller for first-degree arson and making a false statement to obstruct a public officer.
According to an arrest report, Arteage Muller's son told police that he was sleeping when the fire alarm in their unit went off. He said his mom told him there was a fire and they needed to leave. He told officers that his mom arranged clothing "in an unusual pattern" on her bedroom mattress and that is where he found the fire. He said he attempted to put the fire out with a blanket but was unsuccessful. He left the unit and then called the fire department.
The report states that officers spotted Arteage Muller trying to run away from the scene. However, officers were able to take her into custody.
The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada is assisting the residents of 16 apartment units who were displaced as a result of the fire.
