Dallas Woman Accused of Setting House Fire, Then Sabotaging Firefighters’ Hose

Dallas Fire-Rescue responded to a house fire early Friday morning after several 911 callers reported flames at a home in the 2900 block of Prosperity Avenue. Crews arrived just before 1 a.m. to find a one-story house heavily burning. Firefighters were able to knock down the flames—located in a front corner room—by 1:35 a.m.

Suspect Allegedly Tried to Stop Firefighters

While firefighters worked to control the blaze, officials say 37-year-old Jermecia Denise Murphy interfered with the response in an unusual and dangerous way. According to Dallas Fire-Rescue, Murphy used a knife to stab a fire hose, apparently attempting to stop crews from putting out the fire. She was arrested immediately and initially charged with criminal mischief. Multiple witnesses told investigators they heard Murphy admit, “I started it,” while she was damaging the hose.

Investigators Say Fire Was Intentionally Set

Fire investigators later determined the blaze was “incendiary in nature,” meaning a heat source had been deliberately used to ignite materials in the front room. Authorities believe Murphy started the fire herself. Fortunately, no one was inside the home at the time, and no injuries were reported.

More Charges Expected

Murphy is being held in the Dallas County Jail on several charges, including criminal mischief, interfering with public duties, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of marijuana. Her bond is set at $16,000. Dallas Fire-Rescue officials say they expect an arson charge to be added as the investigation continues.

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