SALEM, Ark. — A 40-year-old man was arrested Wednesday after investigators discovered the body of a 33-year-old woman inside a burning home in the Glencoe area with injuries inconsistent with fire damage.
The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a structure fire at a residence in the 500 block of Vista Oak Trail around 10 a.m. May 28. The caller reported a person remained inside the burning home.
Upon arrival, fire and law enforcement personnel used fans to clear thick smoke from the residence. They located the body of Breianna Albee on the floor. She was unresponsive. Emergency medical services and the coroner were called to the scene.
Fulton County investigators later determined Albee had sustained injuries to her head that were not consistent with fire damage and found no plausible explanation for the injuries related to the fire itself, according to a sheriff’s office news release.
Daniel Midele, 40, was present at the scene and had been in the home with Albee all morning, authorities said. He was arrested on probable cause based on physical evidence and witness reports and transported to the Fulton County Jail.
Investigators secured the scene and obtained a search warrant. Arkansas State Police were contacted to assist with the investigation.
Midele is being held on an investigative hold. Authorities said warrants are pending for first-degree murder, arson and abuse of a corpse. Additional charges may be filed.
