UPDATE: Arson suspect identified in connection to Topeka house fire

TOPEKA (KSNT) - A male suspect has been arrested on Monday night in connection to a recent Topeka house fire.

The arrest was made by the Topeka Fire Department with help from the Topeka Police Department and the Kansas Fire Marshal's Office, according to TFD Fire Marshal Alan Stahl. The male suspect, identified as Nathaniel Stanton, 27, was arrested on one count of criminal trespass and three counts of arson.

At 6:54 p.m. on Oct. 17, the TFD was called to the 700 block of Polk Street on a report of heavy smoke and flames coming from a two-story home. Due to the fire conditions, firefighters began a defensive fire attack in an attempt to keep the fire contained to a single home.

The fire was able to damage three other buildings before firefighters could bring it under control. Neighbors reported there were possible people in the home. Additionally, neighbors reported a person running from the home.

Officers with the TPD were able to find the individual who was seen running from the house. A Topeka Fire Investigator arrived with officers and questioned the individual. The suspect was able to report that all occupants of the house were able to escape before the fire department's arrival.

There is no reason to believe that this fire incident is connected to a fire that occurred earlier in the day on the same street.