Man charged with arson to his own vehicle

St Augustine police officers were called to the scene of a motor vehicle and motorcycle fire that appear to have been intentionally torched at some time before 5:00 am this morning in the area of 163 Twine Street.

Public Information Officer Mark Samson informed Historic City News reporters that a witness told officers they observed a young white man beating the windshield of a Mazda 5-door at about 4:00 am.

When the witness returned, the Mazda and a nearby black and tan colored Kawasaki motorcycle were both in flames; according to the incident report.

Officers Jon Marston and Hauson Edwards located 22 year-old James Edward Greaves, the owner of the Mazda car, at the scene. Greaves roommate, Corey William Christian, is the owner of the Kawasaki motorcycle. Christian was also contacted by police.

Further investigation revealed that Greaves had been the man observed earlier this morning beating the windshield of his own car. After questioning by police detectives, it was determined that Greaves set the car and motorcycle on fire.

No injuries were reported.

Greaves was taken into custody, charged with two second-degree felony counts of arson, and then he was transported to the St Johns County Detention Facility in St Augustine; where he remains in custody. He will have a bond hearing in the morning.