MEDFORD, WI (WSAU) — After months of investigating, the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a man in connection with a January fire.
Matthew J. Zarins was arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of multiple charges related to the manufacturing of methamphetamine and homicide by negligent handling of a dangerous weapon. He was arrested in a home on Thomas Street in Loyal.
The 50-year-old was hiding in the attic, trying to avoid detection. He was arrested without incident.
The fire occurred on January 11th in the Town of Maplehurst. Officers described the building as a “homemade structure built from an old camper frame.” Two people were inside the structure including Zarins and 51-year-old Jennifer Johnson of Stanley, WI, who died from her injuries.
RELATED: Deadly Fire Reported in Taylor County
Zarins was injured in the incident but did recover. He is also expected to face one count of maintaining a drug trafficking place. Further details regarding the investigation have not been released, he will appear in Taylor County court for a bond hearing this afternoon.
Charges against him range from Class I to Class F felonies.
