Man Arrested for Setting House on Fire After Beer Binge Fight
On a tumultuous evening in Gweru’s Woodlands Park, a beer binge turned into a fiery altercation that led to the arrest of a 46-year-old man. The incident unfolded on April 18, leaving the community shaken and authorities on high alert.
According to Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, the 46-year-old individual, whose name remains undisclosed, engaged in a heated argument with a fellow patron during their drinking session. As tensions escalated, the situation took a drastic turn when the accused allegedly set fire to the patron’s house in a fit of rage.
The blaze consumed the property, causing significant damage and putting nearby residents at risk. Emergency services were swiftly summoned to contain the inferno, preventing further spread and ensuring the safety of those in the vicinity.
“Allegations are that the suspect Joseph McCarthy of Woodlands suburb was drinking beer with Munyaradzi Munyanyiwa (41) also of the same area,” he said.
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Inspector Mahoko explained that the two individuals were engaged in jesting, but one of the jests provoked McCarthy, leading him to react aggressively towards Munyanyiwa.
Realizing the escalating danger, Munyanyiwa hurriedly retreated to his residence with McCarthy in relentless pursuit.
“McCarthy caught up with Munyanyiwa at his house before punching him all over the body. Munyanyiwa managed to escape and sought refuge at a neighbour’s place,” said Insp Mahoko.
He said Munyanyiwa returned home after about 30 minutes and found his house on fire before shouting for assistance to put out the fire from neighbours but it was all in vain. “The roof trusses, the roof tiles and all the property that was in the 13 roomed house was destroyed. McCarthy was arrested and is assisting with investigations. We are appealing for anyone who might have seen what transpired to come forward and assist the police with information,” said Insp Mahoko.
