A Missouri man has been taken into custody following allegations of arson involving a house in Independence, where four individuals were reportedly inside at the time of the blaze.

The Independence Fire Department swiftly responded to the scene, ensuring that none of the occupants were harmed, according to KCTV.

Tylor A. Burghoff, aged 35, was apprehended just two blocks from the fire. Authorities discovered two lighters in his possession. Witnesses at the scene identified him as the individual seen watching the fire and laughing before he casually walked away.

The homeowner, who acknowledged knowing Burghoff, recounted seeing him outside the residence, shouting and laughing before the fire erupted. Another witness described seeing Burghoff retrieve a blue can from under a porch table. He allegedly knocked on the door, but the residents chose not to respond.

Upon investigation, officials located the blue can near the scorched area on the front porch. It was found to contain acetone, a flammable substance.

The fire damaged the porch and siding but did not spread inside the house. All four residents were evacuated safely. Two of them had been sleeping at the time.

Burghoff denied starting the fire.

According to court records, he has previous arrests for drug distribution and property damage.

He was given a $30,000 bond and is due in court on Tuesday.