Federal Jury Charges Edwardsville Man With Alton Insurance Office Arson

Local man faces federal charge after alleged arson at Alton insurance office stemming from payout dispute.

Jan 23, 2026 9:00 AM Jan 23, 2026 10:34 AM

Listen to the story

Firefighters respond to a reported arson at the State Farm Insurance Office on East Delmar Avenue in Alton on Nov. 22, 2025.

ALTON – A federal grand jury recently charged an Edwardsville man with setting fire to an insurance building in Alton.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

Jason Dawson, 38, has been charged with one count of arson; if convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison and up to $250,000 in fines.

Article continues after sponsor message

Reach Your Local Community with Us - advertise today!

Easy Rest Bamboo Queen Mattress Only: $299.99+tax, Full Set: $449.99+tax

Shop Local

Chuck's Mattress Outlet

Get This Deal →

On Nov. 22, 2025, Dawson allegedly set fire to the State Farm Insurance office building on East Delmar Avenue in Alton. He was reportedly “upset about the amount for a life insurance policy cashout after a meeting with employees on Nov. 21 and returned to the office the following day to set the building on fire,” according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) is leading the investigation into this case, which is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Hudson.

“The ATF has a responsibility to protect our communities,” ATF Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon said. “We also have a responsibility to hold those accountable who endanger lives and property through acts of arson. Our partnership with the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of Southern District of Illinois did just that.”

All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Prefer RiverBender on Google