CORVALLIS, Ore. — A 48-year-old Corvallis man has been arrested after allegedly attempting to set an unhoused person on fire earlier this month. Larry G. Kiser is facing multiple charges, including two counts of first-degree attempted arson, reckless burning, menacing, reckless endangering, second-degree criminal mischief, and second-degree disorderly conduct.
The incident occurred in the early hours of February 16, when Corvallis police officers responded to a report of a person screaming that they had been set on fire. The officers arrived at approximately 4:45 a.m. on the 100 block of SW Madison Avenue, where they found a victim who appeared to have been doused with flammable chemicals but had not sustained injuries.
According to police reports, the victim, who was sleeping outdoors at the time, woke up to find Kiser standing near them, attempting to strike matches. The victim recognized Kiser, who was known to them. Fortunately, the victim managed to escape without being injured.
Further investigation revealed that earlier the evening before the incident, Corvallis Fire Department personnel had responded to a dumpster fire in the same vicinity. Detectives later confirmed that the burned property found in the dumpster belonged to the victim.
A search warrant executed on February 19 led to Kiser’s arrest. He was subsequently transported to the Benton County Jail, where he remains in custody as of February 24.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact Detective Rhoda Krause at 541-766-6924, referencing case number 2025-01010.
The case has raised concerns about the safety of unhoused individuals in Corvallis, who often face dangers from both the elements and criminal activity. As the investigation progresses, local authorities are working to ensure justice for the victim and to address the broader issue of homelessness in the area.
