(COLUMBIA, MO) ~ Columbia Police have made an arrest in connection with a fatal fire that occurred on Paris Road back in June. Brandon Butchkoski, 47, of Columbia, was taken into custody on October 9 and charged with second-degree murder and first-degree arson.

The incident took place on June 15 when police officers responded to an assist-fire call in the 1500 block of Paris Road. Upon investigation, it was discovered that Butchkoski had intentionally set fire to Donovan Baylis, 31, and the porch of a residence. Baylis suffered severe injuries and passed away on July 14.

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Further investigation revealed that Butchkoski had also attempted to set the same residence on fire again on June 29. Fortunately, there was only minor damage to the property. He was arrested on July 3 for first-degree arson in connection with this incident.

The Columbia Police Department is still investigating this case and urges anyone with information to come forward. They can be reached at 573.874.7652 or through CrimeStoppers at 573.875.8477 or http://www.p3tips.com/899 for anonymous tips. A cash reward of up to $2,500 is being offered for any information that leads to an arrest.

The case numbers for these incidents are 2025-005949 and 2025-005473 according to Missouri statutes: 565.021 for second-degree murder and 569.040 for first-degree arson.

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