WILMINGTON — A Wilmington man faces multiple charges, including first-degree arson and felony breaking and entering, following a dramatic early-morning incident on Thursday.
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At approximately 2:49 a.m. on Sept. 11, Wilmington Police officers were dispatched to a residence on Colwell Avenue after a report of a suspicious person trying to gain entry. Upon arrival, officers detected the smell of smoke and located the suspect, 31-year-old Adrian Watkins, attempting to open a back window of the home.
Watkins tried to flee the scene on foot but was quickly apprehended. As officers secured him, they observed smoke coming from a shed attached to the residence. An officer entered the shed and discovered burning cardboard, which they were able to extinguish before the flames could spread.
In addition to the arson and burglary charges, Watkins was also charged with felony breaking and entering, second-degree trespass, injury to real property, and resisting arrest. He was also served with four outstanding warrants.
Watkins is currently being held at the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center without bond. He had his first appearance at the New Hanover County Courthouse this morning at 9 a.m. His next court date is scheduled for Oct. 2 in Courtroom 302.
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