Woman Charged with Attempted Murder and Arson after Elkton Fire

CECIL COUNTY, MD – An Elkton woman is facing multiple arson counts, including two counts of attempted second-degree murder, after she intentionally poured gas and lit the front door of a Hollingsworth Manor home on fire.

Deputy State Fire Marshals were requested to investigate after Singerly Fire Company and Elkton Police Department responded to the 100 block of Pheasant Drive in Elkton just before 6:30 p.m. on Saturday. Firefighters and police officers had responded after it was reported that a female had poured gas on the front door of an occupied home, lit it on fire, and left the area. Deputy State Fire Marshals investigated and concluded, Zillah Marie Jones, 22, was responsible after it was reported she had been asked to leave the house earlier by one of the occupants inside. A witness observed the fire and Jones leaving the scene. The same witness used a garden hose and extinguished the fire, subsequently stopping the fire that had rapidly spread to the front of the home. Investigators concluded there were two people inside the home, including an 87-year-old woman.

A warrant was subsequently issued, charging Jones with Arson 1st and 2nd Degree, two counts of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, 1st and 2nd Degree Malicious Burning, Attempted 4th Degree Burglary, Trespassing, and two counts of Reckless Endangerment.

Officers with Elkton Police Department arrested Jones yesterday evening. She is currently being held at Cecil County Detention Center without bond.

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