March 26, 2025 | JacobiJournal.com — The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office has filed felony charges in connection with an Indianapolis arson case, accusing 22-year-old Gurpreet Singh of setting fire to his own home as part of an alleged insurance fraud scheme.
Fire Incident Overview
On April 22, 2024, at 11:16 p.m., the Indianapolis Fire Department (IFD) responded to a blaze in the 5700 block of Tart Boulevard. Fire crews arrived to find heavy flames tearing through the roof of a residence. Due to the intensity of the fire, commanders ordered a defensive-only strategy, prioritizing containment and firefighter safety.
Within 50 minutes, the blaze was brought under control, but not before causing extensive structural damage. The estimated property loss was valued at approximately $430,000. Fortunately, the home was unoccupied at the time of the fire.
Investigation and Findings
The IFD’s Fire Investigation Unit launched an in-depth inquiry to determine the cause and origin of the fire. After months of forensic analysis, search warrants, and interviews, investigators concluded the fire was deliberately set.
Evidence pointed to Singh as the primary suspect, with authorities alleging he orchestrated the blaze in order to collect fraudulent insurance payments. Officials emphasized that the investigation required significant resources and coordination with multiple agencies before charges were filed.
Arrest and Charges
Singh was located and arrested in Ohio before being extradited back to Marion County. Prosecutors charged him with felony arson, insurance fraud, and battery. Officials noted that Singh remains innocent until proven guilty in court, but stressed that arson-for-profit schemes will be pursued aggressively due to their dangers and financial impact.
Broader Concerns Over Arson-for-Profit
Authorities underscored that Indianapolis arson cases involving insurance fraud are a growing concern. Beyond property loss, intentional fires create life-threatening risks for firefighters, first responders, and nearby residents. Prosecutors added that fraud-related arson cases undermine community trust and drive up insurance costs for law-abiding policyholders.
Source: Indianapolis Fire Department
FAQs: Indianapolis Arson
What happened in the Indianapolis arson case of 2024?
Firefighters responded to a severe house fire on Tart Boulevard, later determined to be intentionally set.
Who was charged in the Indianapolis arson investigation?
Gurpreet Singh, 22, was charged with arson and additional felony counts after investigators determined the fire was intentional.
What was the financial loss in the Indianapolis arson case?
Investigators estimated the fire caused approximately $430,000 in damages.
How did authorities uncover the Indianapolis arson fraud scheme?
Multiple search warrants, interviews, and fire investigations revealed the fire was intentionally set to collect insurance money.
Stay updated on insurance fraud, arson investigations, and legal cases impacting communities. Subscribe to JacobiJournal.com for in-depth reporting and expert analysis.