Dauphin County Police Search for Arson Suspect

Authorities say a Hispanic male fired shots and set an occupied home on fire in Lower Swatara Township.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 2:05am

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Dauphin County police are searching for a suspect who allegedly fired multiple shots into an occupied home and then poured gasoline on the residence, setting it ablaze. The incident occurred on Saturday evening in Lower Swatara Township, with multiple people, including small children, inside the home at the time. A neighbor was able to extinguish the exterior fire.

Why it matters

Violent crimes involving firearms and arson pose serious threats to public safety, especially when they target residential areas. This incident has shaken the local community and raised concerns about the perpetrator's motives and potential for further violence.

The details

According to police, the suspect arrived at the home on Hoke Lane in a gray Nissan sedan, exited the vehicle, and grabbed a gas can from the trunk. Surveillance footage shows the man then firing multiple shots into the structure and pouring gasoline on the exterior before igniting the fire. Fortunately, a neighbor who witnessed the incident was able to quickly extinguish the blaze before it could spread further.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday, April 5, 2026 at approximately 5:10 p.m.

The players

Lower Swatara Township Police

The local law enforcement agency investigating the arson and shooting incident.

Unidentified Hispanic Male

The suspect who allegedly fired shots and set the occupied home on fire in Lower Swatara Township.

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What they’re saying

“We believe this was a targeted incident and that there is no threat to the general public.”

— Lower Swatara Township Police

What’s next

Lower Swatara Township Police are asking for the public's help in identifying the suspect and are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

The takeaway

This violent crime has shaken the local community and underscores the importance of vigilance, cooperation with law enforcement, and addressing the root causes of such acts to maintain public safety.