The Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office has announced significant outcomes from recent fire investigations, resulting in multiple guilty pleas. These cases highlight the ongoing battle against arson and related crimes in the state.
In Duncanville, James Levorn Rias has pleaded guilty to first-degree murder after a fire in May 2024. Rias set an apartment ablaze in an attempt to cover up a murder. He has been sentenced to 40 years in prison. The investigation involved collaboration between the Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Duncanville Police Department, and the Duncanville Fire Marshal’s Office, with additional support from the Cedar Hill Fire Marshal’s Office.
In another case, Danial Allan, Jr. faced charges for a series of fires in Scurry County that date back to 2019. He pleaded guilty to nine counts of arson and received a 35-year prison sentence. This case also saw the Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office working closely with the Scurry County Fire Marshal’s Office to bring Allan to justice.
Chad Michael Kernek’s case involved a home fire in Wharton County in January 2023. Kernek admitted to using lighter fluid to ignite furnishings in his home and others he owned. He was sentenced to 180 days in jail, four years of deferred adjudication, fines, and required to undergo a mental health evaluation.
These investigations underscore the critical role of the Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office. Their team of fire investigators and accelerant detection canines work diligently to determine the causes of fires, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. The agency continues to focus on fire safety and prevention, aiming to reduce the incidence of such devastating crimes in Texas.