Crystal Morse, 34, is now in custody in Benton County, providing a conclusion to a nine-day search by the Rogers Police Department regarding a gas station fire in the Apple Valley area.
Morse was taken into custody late Tuesday evening and is currently being held at the Benton County Detention Center. She is awaiting extradition to Rogers to face charges related to the fire.
Search ends in Apple Valley
The investigation began roughly two weeks ago when authorities responded to the gas station on the Rogers/Apple Valley line. The fire led to the temporary closure of the station, impacting daily commuters traveling along the corridor near Pinnacle Hills and the Walmart on Walnut Street.
Rogers police issued an alert late last week after the suspect was believed to be in the area. The department utilized local media and community outreach to obtain information regarding a female suspect associated with the rapid-eating disorder signs and the fires.
Police declined to specify the nature of the disorder or the exact number of incidents in a public statement, citing the ongoing nature of the case. However, sources confirm she is the primary person of interest identified during the investigation.
Residents in the Rogers area have followed the updates closely, as the fire disrupted traffic and raised concerns about safety in a densely populated commercial zone.
Extradition process underway
Because Morse is initially in the custody of the Benton County authorities, the logistics of bringing her to Rogers court are tied to the extradition process. This typically involves a request from Rogers authorities to have the subject transferred to their jurisdiction.
Once processed, Morse will face arraignment on the specific charges related to the gas station arsons.
The Rogers Police Department encourages anyone with information about the case or any similar incidents to come forward. Local residents can contact RPD directly or utilize the non-emergency tip line.
Contact the Rogers Police Department if you witnessed the events or have information about similar fires in the local area.
Source: 5News KFSM
