A TikTok influencer couple has been charged with first-degree arson and conspiracy in connection with a fire that destroyed an abandoned home and damaged a nearby church in Charleston, West Virginia.
Dakota Harper, 21, and Felicity Eatmon, 22, were arrested Tuesday and each held on a $10,000 bond following the blaze reported at 11:15 p.m. Sunday on Maryland Avenue. The fire caused an estimated $10,000 in damages to the Canaan United Methodist Church, according to court records.
Arrests and Charges
Harper and Eatmon appeared in Kanawha County Magistrate Court on Tuesday, where they face first-degree arson charges and a conspiracy count that carries a potential life sentence. Surveillance footage cited in the complaint shows Eatmon handing Harper a lit piece of paper, which he placed inside the abandoned home before both left the area as the fire grew.
The home had been abandoned with no active utilities, and the fire continued smoldering into Monday morning. Both suspects are being held at the South-Central Regional Jail pending further proceedings.
Social Media Presence and Background
The couple, who have 28,000 followers on TikTok, documented their lives in videos, with Eatmon referring to Harper as her fiancé in their content. Harper, who stands at 3 feet 9 inches tall, became a focal point of media coverage after a viral video showed an officer adjusting his chair during his arraignment to accommodate his stature.
A Republican mayoral candidate in Charleston, Brian Hunt, commented on the incident, noting the couple’s connection to the local homeless community. Hunt stated in a press release that they and others in their social media circles share videos documenting their lives, including interactions with the homeless population.
Investigation Details
Authorities allege the fire originated from the lit paper placed inside the home, which investigators confirmed was abandoned. The Canaan United Methodist Church sustained significant damage, though no injuries were reported. The case remains under review by local law enforcement.
Both Harper and Eatmon are scheduled for further court appearances as the legal process proceeds.