Sep 23, 2025

Police: Complex evacuated after Kan. man poured gas in apartment

Posted Sep 23, 2025 12:00 AM
Brown photo Shawnee County
Brown photo Shawnee County

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after

Just afater 2p.m. Sunday, police responded to the 1000 block of NE Wabash in Topeka on a report of an individual pouring gasoline in an apartment, according to a media release.

Police evacuated the apartment complex, before entering the suspected unit. One individual, later identified from booking reports as 43-year-old Benjamin Gilbert Brown was taken into custody.

Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV
Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV

He is being held on requested charges of attempted aggravated arson, aggravated assault, and criminal threat.  There were no injured reported and no fire was started. Topeka Fire investigators responded to assist police.