What is Arson Crime?

What is Arson? 

Arson is the act of intentionally, maliciously, and willfully setting fire to any structure, or causing an explosion to the structure. It is governed by state criminal laws and usually classified as a felony. 

If the arson leads to death, the arsonist can be charged with murder. Arson can also include causing an explosion or setting fire to a motor vehicle, aircraft or personal property of another.

Generally, it is the act of setting the fire that meets the element for arson, so even if the fire is minimal, it is still considered arson.

Most states do recognize varying degrees of arson, however, based upon the amount of damage caused, whether the arson posed a danger to human life, and whether the arson was intended to defraud, such as insurance fraud.