Wisconsin Woman Accused of Setting Fire at Davenport Kwik Star and Threatening Police With Knife
DAVENPORT, IOWA — A 57-year-old Wisconsin woman is facing multiple felony arson and assault charges after allegedly setting fire outside a Kwik Star gas station in Davenport and threatening police officers with a knife when she returned to the scene.
According to Scott County Court records, Deanne Chance, of Beloit, Wisconsin, is charged with first- and second-degree arson, interference with official acts with a dangerous weapon, and third-degree criminal mischief. She also faces an aggravated misdemeanor count of assault while displaying a dangerous weapon.
Fire Erupts Outside Kwik Star Propane Storage Area
The incident occurred around 11 p.m. on Friday, October 3, when the Davenport Fire Department responded to a structure fire at the Kwik Star located on the 1200 block of East Kimberly Road.
Witnesses reported seeing flames near the store’s liquid propane storage cage and immediately called 911. One bystander grabbed a fire extinguisher and was able to knock down most of the flames before firefighters arrived.
When crews reached the scene, they found light smoke and burn damage consistent with intentional ignition, according to the department’s investigation.
Suspect Returned With Knife and Tried to Ignite Gas Pumps
During the investigation, a woman matching the suspect’s description — later identified as Deanne Chance — reportedly returned to the scene and threatened officers with a knife.
Authorities say Chance also attempted to ignite the gas pumps near the store before being subdued and arrested by responding police.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and firefighters were able to fully extinguish the flames using a small amount of water.
“This could have been far more dangerous given the proximity to propane and gas storage,” a Davenport fire investigator said, noting that the quick action of witnesses likely prevented a major explosion.
Court Appearance Scheduled in Scott County
Chance was booked into the Scott County Jail and is scheduled to appear in Scott County Court in the coming days. Court filings show she remains held on multiple felony charges while the Iowa State Fire Marshal’s Office continues to assist in the investigation.
Authorities have not released any possible motive for the arson.
As Davenport police and fire investigators continue reviewing evidence, officials are crediting quick public response and interagency coordination for averting a potential disaster. For ongoing updates on Midwest crime and public safety news, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.