Ottumwa, IA- A Southeast Iowa woman has been charged with murder in connection with a house fire that took place early Sunday.
Radio Iowa reports that Authorities say fire crews were dispatched to a residence in Ottumwa based on the report of a heavy fire. Two people were in the home at the time of the blaze.
One person was able to escape but 59-year-old Ernest Wilson of Ottumwa died. 31-year-old Ashley Lankford of Ottumwa was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, first-degree arson, attempted murder, first-degree criminal mischief, and animal abuse. Lankford is currently in the Wapello County Jail.
Her bond has been set at one million dollars. The fire remains under investigation.
