Mom accused of setting fire to home with 12-year-old daughter inside

BELLINGHAM -- A woman has been arrested for allegedly setting fire to her home  with her 12-year-old daughter sleeping inside.

Whatcom County Sheriff Bill Elfo said Thursday that deputies arrested Casey Evans, 38, for a series of arsons on Locust Avenue in Bellingham.

Elfo said Evans started grass fires and also torched a utility pole, woodshed and detached garage before setting her own home on fire.

"A fire of that magnitude in that close proximity to other residents really has a potential to spread and cause damage and raises the possibility of the loss of life," Elfo said.

Neighbors were shocked to learn the fires were allegedly started by Evans because Evans kept a watchful eye over the neighborhood.

One neighbor said, "In a sad way it brought our community together more. They were all very small fires and I don`t think she intended to hurt anyone."

Evans is being held in jail in lieu of $200,000 bail.

She has another court appearance scheduled for May 15.

Her 12-year-old daughter is being cared for by Child Protective Services.