Scottsdale business owner accused of arson, vandalism at own store

PHOENIX – A metro Phoenix business owner was arrested Sunday on suspicion of setting his store on fire and vandalizing surrounding property.

James Richard Waller, 75, was charged with arson of an occupied structure and criminal damage, the Scottsdale Police Department said in a press release Monday.

Scottsdale Police and Fire responded to a call at a shopping center at the northeast corner of Pima and Pinnacle Peak roads at around 4:30 a.m. Sunday.

Firefighters and the store’s sprinkler system put out a fire at High Desert Rugs and Furnishings.

The store was also defaced with spray paint, as were surrounding businesses and vehicles.

Investigators found evidence indicating Waller, owner of the rug store, was responsible for the vandalism and fire.

No other details were made available.

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