Mar 08, 2023

Kansas woman accused of starting fire that caused $18K damage

Posted Mar 08, 2023 12:00 PM
The result of the fire -photo courtesy WIBW TV
The result of the fire -photo courtesy WIBW TV

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a building fire and have made an arrest.

Just after 4a.m. Tuesday, fire crews responded to reports of a vacant commercial building fire at 1221 SW Huntoon Street in Topeka, according to a media release. 

First responders found smoke and flames coming from the single story building. Firefighters began an offensive fire attack.

Barnett-photo Shawnee Co.
Barnett-photo Shawnee Co.

Investigators determine the fire was intentionally set and police arrested 65-year-year-old Joslynn Y. Barnett of Topeka and booked her into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested arson charges.

The total estimated loss from the fire is $18,000, all of which is associated with structural loss. There were no injuries. Investigators did not find working smoke detectors in the building.