Weston man dies in fire at residence
Arson and murder charges have been filed in a deadly blaze that occurred at a home in Weston early Sunday.
Local authorities and fire investigators were still on site Monday morning investigating the scene in Weston. The fire was reported just before 2 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 17.
A Weston man has been charged with arson and murder in the wake of Jan. 17 fire. Anthony Fleming, 24, allegedly set the fire at a home on Prospect Street in Weston that resulted in the death of Timothy Darby, 60, of Weston.
Platte County Prosecuting Attorney Eric Zahnd said the charges were filed early Monday morning, following an investigation led by the Platte County Sheriff’s Office.
According to court documents, Fleming allegedly intentionally set a fire in the residence sometime between 1 and 2 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 17. He then allegedly fled from the residence on foot before authorities arrived. Authorities say Fleming was found about one mile from the home in a wooded area, wearing only socks.
Firefighters found Darby dead in the kitchen of the house, authorities say.
Platte County Sheriff Mark Owen said, “Our detectives, deputies, the Weston Police Department, and prosecutors did an outstanding job working together, which resulted in the quick apprehension of this defendant. Their tireless work is the reason prosecutors will be able to seek justice for the victim and his family. I especially want to thank the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office and all of the fire and ambulance personnel who responded to the fire for their assistance at the fire scene and the Weston Police Department for their assistance in apprehending the subject and assisting with the investigation.”
Fleming is charged with first degree arson and second degree murder. If convicted, he faces up to life in prison on each charge.
He is currently being held without bond in the Platte County Detention Facility.
The case is being investigated by the Platte County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Myles Perry, assistant prosecuting attorney.
(Look for more details on this story in the Jan. 20 print edition of The Landmark. Subscribe by calling 816.858.0363)