January 3rd, 2025 by WCBC Radio

An arrest has been made in connection with the intentional burning of a tree at Radiant Life Church, located at 212 Park Street in Cumberland. Dalton Richard Eugene Gates, 32, was apprehended after an investigation that began with surveillance footage and was aided by an investigator randomly scrolling through Facebook.

On December 9, 2024, just after 5:00 p.m., a tree was discovered on fire at Radiant Life Church. The Cumberland Fire Department responded and extinguished the fire within minutes. The Cumberland Fire Marshal's Office later concluded that the tree was intentionally set and requested the assistance of the Office of the State Fire Marshal. Investigators located surveillance video that provided critical evidence, revealing the suspect's actions and an image, but could not positively identify the person.

As the investigation continued, Deputy State Fire Marshal Adam Rounds discovered a crucial lead when he coincidentally observed the suspect on the local Facebook page, BCPF Reality News. Utilizing this information, Deputy Rounds worked closely with the Cumberland Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, and Bedford Borough Police to track down Gates and confirm his identity.

"While it may have been a tree, any fire set intentionally—regardless of the property involved—poses a significant danger to public safety. Through collaboration and careful investigative work, Deputy Rounds was able to link Gates to the arson," stated Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray. "The Office of the State Fire Marshal takes every fire seriously and remains committed to investigating and holding individuals accountable for reckless actions." Mowbray continued. 

Pennsylvania State Police arrested Gates on January 2, 2025. He is currently being held at Bedford County Correctional Facility and is awaiting extradition. 

Gates has been charged with malicious destruction of property and second-degree malicious burning.