Authorities are asking for the public's help in finding a man they say deliberately set fire to a mobile home in Millard.
The fire broke out February 26 near 136th and Millard Ave. When crews arrived they learned that four people were inside at the time. The exit out of the trailer was blocked by flames, forcing them to escape through a window.
All four were transported to the hospital for smoke inhalation and cuts due to the broken glass during their escape. Investigators were able to quickly determine the fire was no accident and gathered information to the whereabouts of a suspect. With help from Council Bluffs Fire Investigators and Police, Omaha Fire Investigators were able to locate Chance Thomas, who was captured within hours of the fire after a short foot pursuit.
Thomas was booked into the Pottawattamie County Jail for unrelated charges in Iowa and is currently awaiting extradition to Omaha for charges related to this arson. During the investigation, evidence indicated that Joshua McDermott aided Thomas in this arson. McDermott initially agreed to turn himself in, but has not been seen since.
The Fire Investigation unit is asking for any information about the whereabouts of McDermott. His family says he has not been seen at his home near 16th and S Street for some time. McDermott is considered dangerous and the public is asked to call 911 if they know his location.