Charges still pending against suspected arsonist

PARKER – Charges are still pending in the suspected arson fire that destroyed Shafer Automotive repair shop in Parker earlier this month. Parker Police Chief Craig Haley said he was waiting on a final report from the Kansas Fire Marshall's office before proceeding with formal charges.

The man suspected in the case is being held by the Osawatomie Police Department on unrelated charges, Haley said.

The business, owned by Tyler Shafer, burned on July 18 after a fire was apparently set near a pile of discarded tires and a pick up truck on the west end of the building. The fire soon moved inside and burned more tires, repair equipment and severely damaged the structure of the building.