Official newspaper of The University of Texas at Austin

The Daily Texan

Official newspaper of The University of Texas at Austin

The Daily Texan

Official newspaper of The University of Texas at Austin

The Daily Texan

Advertise in our classifieds section
Your classified listing could be here!
October 4, 2022
LISTEN IN

Freshman sets fires in West Campus, faces felony arson charges

Economics freshman Chris Sun, 18, confessed to police that he started three fires in the University Towers apartment complex between Aug. 31 and Sept. 13.

Tyrel Hullum, manager of University Towers private dormitory, said the damage done by the fires was minimal and Sun was not given a lease violation citation from the complex as a result. Hullum said his complex will not seek civil compensation for the damage done.

“As far as Towers is concerned, the case is put to bed,” he said.


According to an affidavit for warrant of arrest and detention issued Sept. 17, Sun now faces a first-degree felony arson charge, punishable with five years to life in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. The charge is considered a first-degree felony in this case because police believe Sun set the fires with the intent to damage a habitation.

The affidavit also said that the mangled bodies of dead pigeons were found near the locations of the fires. Sun has denied being involved with the pigeons.

More to Discover
Activate Search
Freshman sets fires in West Campus, faces felony arson charges