Texas Woman Accused of Setting Dallas House Fire, Then Slashing Firefighters’ Water Hoses as They Tried to Extinguish Flames

TEXAS — A Dallas woman is facing multiple charges after authorities say she set a house on fire and then actively interfered with firefighters by slashing their water hoses with a knife as they attempted to put out the blaze early Friday morning.

Jermecia Murphy, 37, was arrested at the scene and charged with criminal mischief, interfering with public duties, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of marijuana, with officials confirming that arson charges are likely forthcoming.

Firefighters Say Woman Tried to Cut Hoses as House Burned

Dallas Fire-Rescue crews responded to a reported house fire on Prosperity Avenue at 12:58 a.m. When firefighters began stretching lines to combat the growing blaze, officials say Murphy suddenly attempted to slash the water hoses using a knife—an act that could have severely endangered firefighters and the surrounding neighborhood.

Authorities say she was immediately detained before she could cause further damage.

Witnesses at the scene told investigators that Murphy openly claimed she started the fire, according to local reporting.

Investigators Confirm the Blaze Was Intentionally Set

Fire crews brought the flames under control at approximately 1:30 a.m., allowing investigators to enter the home. The fire originated in the front room of the single-story residence and showed clear signs of being “incendiary in nature.”

Officials say the blaze was ignited using combustible materials with an unknown heat source, strongly indicating intentional arson.

Fortunately, no one was inside the home at the time of the fire, and no injuries were reported among residents or firefighters.

Dallas Fire-Rescue later announced that they expect an arson charge to be added, pending completion of the investigation.

Suspect Booked Into Dallas County Jail

Murphy was transported to the Dallas County Jail, where her total bond was set at $16,000. Additional charges could increase that amount once arson is formally filed.

Authorities say the case highlights both the danger to first responders and the potential risk to the public when individuals interfere with emergency operations.

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