State police arrest subject in suspected Salem arson

SALEM, W.Va. –– West Virginia State Police have arrested a 44-year old suspect in an arson on Salem Long Road on Nov. 13.

Troopers were informed of the fire and told a subject that had been seen inside the home was fleeing the scene and claiming responsibility for the fire.

The person who reported the fire told troopers he knew Michael Chipps lived at the residnce and intervened to stop the fire when he saw smoke.

At the scene, troopers said they found empty motor oil containers and one gallon water jugs that smelled like gasoline.

Chipps has been charged with first degree arson and is being held on a $25,000 bond in the North Central Regional Jail.