Illinois Man Accused of Setting Barn Fire Near Muscoda Arrested After Month-Long Investigation

TOWN OF PULASKI, WISCONSIN — A 37-year-old Illinois man has been arrested for arson in connection with a barn fire that broke out last month near Muscoda, authorities announced Monday.

According to Iowa County Sheriff Michael Peterson, the blaze erupted around 11:51 a.m. on October 6 along Delp Road in the Town of Pulaski, a rural area roughly 10 miles east of Muscoda. Multiple fire departments and sheriff’s deputies responded to the scene to battle the fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby structures.

Investigation Leads to Arrest

After several weeks of investigation, deputies arrested the Warren, Illinois man on charges of arson of a building without the owner’s consent. He is currently being held at the Iowa County Jail pending an initial court appearance.

The Iowa County Fire Investigation Team, along with the Wisconsin Department of Criminal Investigation Fire Marshal and the Dodgeville Police Department, assisted in examining the scene and determining the fire’s cause.

Authorities have not released the suspect’s name in accordance with News 3 Now’s policy of not identifying individuals accused of crimes until formal charges are filed in court.

Crews Responded to Intense Blaze

Emergency crews from multiple area fire departments worked for hours to contain the barn fire after thick smoke was spotted rising from the property. The blaze destroyed most of the structure, but officials have not reported any injuries.

Investigators believe the fire was intentionally set, though a motive has not yet been disclosed. Evidence collected at the scene reportedly played a key role in identifying the suspect.

Sheriff’s Office Urges Vigilance

Sheriff Peterson praised the efforts of all responding agencies, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation in solving rural fire cases.

“We appreciate the assistance of our state and local partners in bringing this case forward,” Peterson said. “This arrest shows the importance of teamwork when investigating crimes that impact our farming and rural communities.”

The suspect is expected to appear in Iowa County Circuit Court later this week for a bond hearing. If convicted, he could face significant prison time and fines under Wisconsin’s arson statutes.

Residents in the area are encouraged to report any suspicious activity related to property damage or fires by contacting the Iowa County Sheriff’s Office.

For updates on this developing case and other regional news, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.