September 25th, 2024 by WCBC Radio

A South Dakota man is in custody and awaiting extradition to Maryland after Pennsylvania Law Enforcement apprehended him in connection to an arson homicide fire that occurred early Tuesday morning in Kitzmiller. Garrett County firefighters responded to East Main Street for a structure fire just after 5 a.m. and discovered the body of Jusnita James, 70 years of age in the back of the residence with a fatal gunshot wound. Maryland State Police and Fire Marshals responded to the area to begin the investigation and K9 units were requested to the scene during the course of the investigation. A person of interest was identified and a manhunt began just after 9:00 a.m. for Nicholas James, 46 of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. James was apprehended by the Pittsburgh Police Department and is waiting extradition to Maryland. The Garrett County Sheriff's office is still conducting the investigation and is asking anyone with information in regards to James's vehicle,  a 2023 Chrysler Pacifica with Maryland registration 4GJ9172,  to please contact the Sheriff's office at 301.334.1911.