Hannibal man facing five counts of second-degree arson; two others arrested for hindering prosecution

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Three people recently were arrested in connection to a series of recent fires in Hannibal.

The Hannibal Police Department has been investigating fires which were deemed suspicious in nature in the 1600 block of Grace, the 400 block of Jefferson (a shed and a home), the 1700 block of Martin and the 400 block of Rock.

During the investigation, detectives located video footage which led them to identify a suspect, William L. Jernigan, 36, of Hannibal. Officers began an extensive search for Jernigan, and he was subsequently found in a closet at a residence in the 1200 block of Union. Jernigan was taken into custody, and placed on a 24-hour hold in the Marion County Jail. 

Also arrested were Kathy L. Jernigan, 62, and Adam L. Sutton, 46. They were placed on 24-hour hold for hindering prosecution. 

The 10^th Judicial Circuit of Marion County issued Saturday the following warrants of the subjects: 

• William Jernigan — five counts of second-degree arson with $15,000 bond.
• Kathy Jernigan – hindering prosecution with $10,000 bond.
• Sutton – hindering prosecution with a $10,000 bond. 

During the Hannibal Police Department’s search for Jernigan, four other subjects were arrested on outstanding warrants. The Hannibal Police Department was assisted by the Hannibal Fire Department, and the Missouri State Fire Marshall. Additional charges may follow.