Man accused of arson fires at school, deputies find underwear, lubricant

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By Renee Standera - email

Thomas Riley (Source: Lexington County Detention Center)

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WEST COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) -

A West Columbia man has been arrested in connection with two arson fires at an elementary school.

Lexington County Sheriff's deputies arrested 54-year-old Thomas Riley Friday morning, about half an hour after the second fire was set at Pineview Elementary School on Leaphart Rd. in West Columbia. Deputies say they found Riley hiding behind a tree near the school.

Investigators say the first fire was set in a garbage Dumpster on July 30th. The second fire was set in a garbage can on the school's playground at about 4:30 a.m. Thursday.

Lexington County Sheriff James Metts say investigators are still trying to determine a motive.

Investigators say when they arrested Riley, they found on him two lighters, a pack of cigarettes and a tube of personal lubricant. Deputies also found a pair of Riley's underwear on the jungle gym at the playground.

Investigators say two cigarettes found at the scene matched the ones found on Riley.

Riley is being held at the Lexington County Detention Center on $50,000 bail. If convicted, he could be sentenced up to 15 years in prison.

Investigators are looking for a possible connection between Riley and other crimes. If you know of any suspicious activity, call Crimestoppers at 1-888-Crime-SC.

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Man accused of arson fires at school, deputies find underwear, - wistv.com - Columbia, South Carolina |

Man accused of arson fires at school, deputies find underwear, lubricant

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