An Edwardsville resident, Jason Dawson, 38, has been indicted on a federal arson charge in connection with a fire at an insurance office building located on East Delmar Avenue in Alton. The incident allegedly took place on November 22, 2025.
According to federal charging documents, Dawson is accused of setting the fire after expressing dissatisfaction with the payout from a life insurance policy during a meeting with employees at the office on November 21. The following day, he allegedly returned and ignited the building.
“The ATF has a responsibility to protect our communities. We also have a responsibility to hold those accountable who endanger lives and property through acts of arson. Our partnership with the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of Southern District of Illinois did just that. This indictment is a result of diligent investigative work and close collaborations among the ATF, the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal and the U.S. Attorney’s Office; and we will continue to work together to pursue justice for other cases like this,” said ATF Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon.
Authorities remind that an indictment is only an allegation and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
If convicted, Dawson could face up to 20 years in prison and fines reaching $250,000.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is leading the investigation into this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Hudson is prosecuting.
