On November 21, 2024, patrol deputies from the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of suspicious circumstances at a residence in the 100 block of West 2nd Street in Sun Valley.
Upon arrival, deputies made contact with the homeowner, who reported that someone had attempted to set the residence on fire. While speaking with the homeowner, it was revealed that a minor child was inside the home at the time the fire was set. Fortunately, the child was unharmed. The residence sustained damage to its exterior as a result of the fire.
On-scene evidence confirmed that a fire had been intentionally ignited using suspected flammable liquids. The Nevada State Fire Marshal’s Office was requested and responded to conduct a specialized fire investigation. Evidence was collected from the scene, and the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division took over the investigation in partnership with the Fire Marshal.
Through the collection of surveillance footage and witness statements, investigators identified Phillip Headley as the suspect responsible for setting the fire. Headley was currently in custody at the Washoe County Detention Facility on unrelated charges.
On June 6, 2025, following the investigation, Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Detectives established probable cause and formally add-booked Phillip Headley on one count of First Degree Arson.
This investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division at (775) 328-3320.
