LAS VEGAS – Authorities are investigating a deadly house fire as a homicide after Deaon Crawford, a man in his 40s, was found dead inside a burning home early Thursday morning.
According to Homicide Lt. Robert Price, Las Vegas Fire and Rescue crews responded to a 911 call around 3:30 a.m. regarding a house fire in the 6200 block of Carmen Boulevard. When firefighters entered the residence, they discovered a man suffering from severe burns. Despite all life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators quickly determined that the fire had been intentionally set. Lt. Price revealed that blood was found inside the home, and further examination showed that Crawford had been shot several times before the fire began. Officials confirmed that he was the only person inside the residence at the time of the blaze.
Both homicide and arson detectives are now working jointly to uncover what led to the violent and tragic incident. No suspects have been identified or arrested as of Thursday afternoon.
“This was a deliberate act,” Lt. Price said during a press briefing. “We are asking anyone with information to come forward.”
Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the area or who has information related to the case to contact the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department’s Homicide Division or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers of Nevada at crimestoppersofnv.com.