Carmi News — The Villagers Voice

On August 28, 2017 at approximately 12:30 p.m. the Carmi Police and Carmi Fiire Departments were dispatched to a single-story structure fire at 611 Second Street in Carmi. Upon arrival officers noted the southwest side of the home was fully engulfed in fire. Carmi Fire Department began fighting the fire while Carmi Police Department began speaking with neighbors and witnesses to the fire. Additional fire units were requested to assist in fighting the fire. Enfield, Norris City and Crossville Fire Department personnel arrived to assist. The home was owned by Robert R. Horn and Karen S. Miller. The home was currently being occupied by Robert Horn and Tena Smith. Officers knew there was currently no electricity or utilities to the home as they had recently been shut off. Officers were informed that Robert and Tena had left the residence around 11:00 a.m. on foot. Robert and Tena were on their way back home when they observed smoke coming from the home. 911 was called by neighbors. Robert and Tena observed Karen Miller on the porch of 610 Second Street watching the fire. A verbal argument ensued between Tena and Karen. Karen exited the porch and came into the street in front of the 611 home and a physical altercation began between the two females. The two had apparently just separated before officers arrived. Tena advised she wished to sign a complaint against Karen. Officers were also informed by Animal Control and Robert that his two dogs were missing from the fenced in back yard. Robert stated that the dogs went missing around 8:00 p.m. on August 27 and he had reported it to Animal Control as well. Karen Miller was located inside 610 Second Street and placed under arrest for Aggravated Battery. Officers also located the two dogs that were reported stolen inside the basement of 610 Second Street. Karen Miller was subsequently charged with Theft Under $500. After the fire was extinguished the State Fire Marshall was called to the scene and arrived Monday afternoon. As a result, the State Fire Marshall listed the fire as arson. After completing more interviews of neighbors and witnesses Karen Miller was formally charged on Tuesday with Residential Arson and Criminal Damage to Property over $500