Yavapai County man sentenced for hitting RV; set on fire

PHOENIX — A man was sentenced to 15 years in prison for crashing into a camper and setting it on fire in Yavapai County, officials said Monday.

Last October, James Haynes, 48, crashed his vehicle through two doors and crashing into a camper, police said. He then set his vehicle on fire and crawled under the trailer, attempting to get inside from underneath.

This quickly caused the trailer to catch fire, according to police. All residents of the trailer were able to evacuate safely, but several structures were completely engulfed in flames. Propane tanks and ammunition began exploding quickly, police said.

Police said the trailer was occupied by a woman who was the subject of a protection order against Haynes.

Officers responded and found Haynes hiding under the trailer and made his arrest. The investigation revealed that Haynes had multiple violations of the protection order and harassment charges.

Haynes told deputies he ingested approximately 25 Vicodin and led authorities to what appeared to be a suicide note in his pocket.

Nearly eight months later, Haynes was sentenced to 15 years in prison for arson of an occupied structure, arson of a structure or property and criminal damage by domestic violence.