MASON COUNTY, Texas — The man accused of setting fire to the Mason County Courthouse and an occupied house in 2021 was found guilty of arson this week, the State Fire Marshal's Office said Friday.
A McCulloch County jury found Nicholas Miller guilty of starting fires at the historic courthouse and an occupied residential structure on Feb. 4, 2021.
The SFMO led the origin and cause investigation for both fires. Investigators testified during the trial that traces of ignitable liquids were found at the scenes and the fires were determined to be arson. Other evidence was presented by the Texas Department of Public Safety and local authorities.
“I want to thank our investigators and the local public safety authorities for their exemplary work in this case,” Debra Knight, state fire marshal, said. “By coordinating evidence, communication, and resources, we worked together to achieve justice and further enhance the safety of Texans.”
Miller was charged with two counts of arson, felony possession of a firearm, burglary of a building and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.
The indictments carry possible jail time ranging from two years to life. Miller's sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 28.