Yellville Man Charged with Arson, Domestic Battery

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A 72-year-old Yellville, Arkansas man has been charged with three counts of arson and first-degree domestic battery following a domestic dispute and fire earlier this month. According to authorities, Kenneth Lee Nelson allegedly threatened his 82-year-old female victim, set fire to his own residence, and shot himself under the chin before being arrested.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious nature of domestic violence incidents that can escalate to arson and self-harm, raising concerns about public safety and the need for better resources to address mental health crises and domestic abuse in rural communities.

The details

On January 9th, police responded to a call about a physical domestic dispute at Nelson's residence on Nelson Lane. The 82-year-old female victim reported that Nelson had placed the butt of a rifle against her chest and the barrel in his own mouth, telling her to kill him. When she tried to leave, Nelson allegedly got in her vehicle and struck her with the door. As she tried to leave in another car, Nelson grabbed her and her purse, injuring her hand. About an hour later, police received another call that Nelson had returned and was threatening to burn down the house and kill himself. When police arrived, they found the residence on fire and Nelson exiting the home holding a gas can. Nelson refused commands and set fire to a nearby vehicle before shooting himself under the chin. The fire spread, causing an estimated $175,000 in property damage.

• On January 9th, around 5:00 PM, police received the initial call about the domestic dispute.
• About an hour later, police received another call that Nelson had returned and was threatening to burn down the house.

What’s next

Nelson is being held on $100,000 bond and will face a judge to determine if he will be allowed out on bail.