Alleged Meijer Arsonist Arraigned In Calhoun County

A Grand Rapids man arrested in Calhoun County this week was arraigned on Thursday.

The Battle Creek Enquirer reports that 30-year-old Kenneth Smith Jr. appeared in Calhoun County District Court to face charges of fleeing police and fourth-degree arson.  Smith allegedly set a car on fire early Tuesday in the B Drive Meijer parking lot, and then entered the store in an attempt to break into the pharmacy.

Authorities say he then entered the Meijer gas station and set a fire in the bathroom, before heading across the street and attempting to steal from Walmart. While fleeing police, Smith’s car collided with an Emmett Township fire truck, causing it severe damage.

Smith's car was found in a ditch along B Drive S. a few minutes later, with it's front wheel missing as a result of the collision. Prosecutors say that they believe many more charges will be coming.