A 63-year-old Easton man is facing three felony counts of arson following a welfare check and a potential structure fire reported in rural Easton.
Faribault County authorities responded to the incident around 6:30 p.m. on Friday at 20061 460th Avenue in Lura Township.
According to a press release, when deputies arrived at the scene they found three separate large fires on the property.
Authorities arrested Steven Scott Gray at the scene without incident and transported him to the county jail where he is being held.
The onsite residence, a garage and two vehicles were all estimated to be a total loss, according to authorities.
Gray has been charged with first-degree arson of a dwelling; first-degree arson of other buildings; and first-degree arson of flammable material.
Responding fire departments were able to suppress and gain control of the fires within two hours. Deputies and Easton Fire Department firefighters remained on the scene until further investigation could be conducted.
Assisting the Sheriff’s Department on the scene were the Wells, Delavan and Minnesota Lake fire departments, Wells Ambulance Service, Minnesota State Patrol and State Fire Marshal.
During a hearing in Faribault County District Court on Monday, bail conditions were set as: post $400,000 bail or bond with no conditions; or post $250,000 non-cash bond with conditions; or post $25,000 cash bail with conditions.
Gray was ordered:
- not to use alcohol or controlled substance;
- not possess alcohol or drugs;
- keep the court and his attorney informed of his current address;
- make all future court appearances;
- no use or possession of firearms or dangerous weapons;
- make and maintain contact with his attorney;
- be subjected to random drug testing.
Gray’s next hearing is an initial appearance that has been scheduled on Oct. 23.