call from Marco. >> You know, like you guys are like cornering me right now. I guess you are. >> The door's wide open. You just got to give us the phone and you could call from our landline or another phone. But right now, our policy is you can't make a phone call. You can't use the phone anymore. >> Okay. >> Okay. So, why don't you give me the phone and we'll call mom. On December 13th, 2024 in Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, Ashley Mann was brought in for questioning in connection with a fire that destroyed a rental home on West White Ash Drive. Spoiler details are in the video description, and the full results of all charges in the case are laid out at the end of the video. >> What I want you to do is tell me everything that happened last night. Start early in the evening. Um I don't Do you work during the day? >> Mhm. >> So were you at work yesterday? >> I got to work at 11:00 >> in the morning. >> And what morning? >> And where do you work at? >> Wiser. It's a manufacturing machine shop in >> Wisers. >> Wisers. Yeah. >> Okay. And where's that? >> Clayton. >> Clayton. And how late do you normally work? >> Um I worked for um I think I No, I think it's like 9 or 8 hours. Normally it's like 8:00, but sometimes I say like 10 hours depending. I was sick Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. So yesterday I like I think I was there till like maybe >> try to make up hours or what? >> I Yeah, but I don't know exactly what time I left. I guess >> Parker, what time do you think you got done work? Was it light out or dark out? >> It was definitely dark. It was probably 9ish. Maybe >> 9:00 at night. >> Maybe 10ish. >> So what did you do from that point forward? Just tell us everything. So, I left work and I I bent over so [clears throat] the bar and I called her on my way home and I'm like cuz I drive by the straight and I'm like you know maybe I'll stop and she didn't answer her phone so I stopped in the bar and she's like I need your help and I'm like okay like I just you know wanted to have a drink and like haven't seen her in [snorts] a week or two or whatever so we're friends and so then she leaves me to bar time and like I just worked Like >> where'd she go? >> For a cigarette, I'm assuming. Like I don't know exactly. She seems like her dad's overwhelmed. She was stressed out, whatever. So I'm like and I bartended there like almost 2 years ago. So I mean I Okay. I guess like, okay, well, here I am as a bartending now and like I just want to like, you know, hang out or whatever. >> And it's pretty busy and she comes in and like I tell her what to ring up or whatever and I'm just like trying to like go get bottles and like st like stock for her and just help, you know, just be a friend. >> And then this native guy in the corner that he knows me cuz I used to work there and I think [clears throat] he's just not we got into like an argu he's really rude. He was trying to fight like other people in the bar and like I was just mean and I'm like dude you can't do that here. Like >> what's his name? >> Ricky or something. >> Mhm. [clears throat] >> But he was being super disrespectful and like we got into like I tried to kick him out, you know? But like he's like you can't kick me out here. I'm supposed to be here. I'm like well you can't be trying to fight like everyone in here. So like I was just like getting frustrated and then Alyssa comes back and she's like the cops are coming like good, you know, good cuz this guy needs to leave like he's you know and like >> who said the cops are coming. Alyssa told me the cops are coming. >> Did she know why or >> I I'm thought it was because of that Ricky guy cuz like I you know that's it was whatever but no the cops coming there and I was like think out of here you know like this guy over here in the corner you know he's having he's a problem and then he's like we're not here for him we're here for you. I'm like and he's like I'm like god damn it like okay you know if I knew I wasn't supposed to be there and I'm on probation like I've been doing so good and like you know he's like and I thought I'm like so in my eyes I'm going to jail like I mean I [ __ ] up you know doing [clears throat] so good so I he told me he's like if you just go in your car you know and whatever don't drive and then um have someone come meet you or whatever and I was just like you know thank you I'm sorry whatever and I was like my just nervous, you know, cuz it's the first time I've whatever. So, I went in my truck and like I sat there for a little bit and my phone died. So, like I went and got a charger from Melissa and then went back out there and that Ricky guy, he was just like I just like went in went back in my truck like the cops were still there. So, I sat there and then they they left and I was like, "Well, I don't just want to sit here." Like I made the stupid choice to drive to her house, >> you know, like knowing that I could probably be pulled over for you. Like I was pretty drunk. So cuz people at the bar were buying shots. Like I mean I was and I would drink in a long time. So I don't know my tolerance really low. So I went to her house, got there, tried to call her, end up calling like she didn't answer the phone. Called Logan, her cousin was on the phone with him when I was there. Went in the house. It was [ __ ] cold. And I'm like I'm like I got to get the [ __ ] out of here. He's like well if I can meet you at your mom's or whatever and then drive you from there. Logan her cousin. >> Mhm. >> So I left right away and I like I just went in the basement and like I seen that like it's really packed down there or whatever and like I don't know if a fire was going or I don't know what happened but like when I left I just like got my truck spat out there like hoping you know like that I the cops would like find me for driving or whatever and then I just like went to my mom's. >> When you drove which way did you go? uh with uh took the back way like G to Milton. >> So, did you go all the way up what's called West White Ash Drive up to that crossroad and over or did you take that first turn to go back out to E? >> I think cuz I came when the car stop the straight, they went left and I went right, >> you know, and then I cut down. >> So, you went towards Turtle Lake. Well, then I took that uh road to the left or whatever. And then I took that all the way down um you know, I don't know exactly the way I took in, but I know I took like the back way from like the range way or you know where the not the rangeway, but like the I don't know exactly where I came in. I I know like left came in one way and probably left the same way, maybe a different way. I was in like I was frantically like shouldn't have been driving cuz I wasn't paying. Did you go straight north of range on that county road up to the lake or? >> When I pulled out of the straight, I took a right and then I took a left. So like the next left. >> So you pulled out on the road, the county road that comes out at straight eight right there. Or did you pull out on Highway 8 and take a right? >> I pulled out Highway 8 and took a left. >> You pulled out on the far side of the parking lot and took a right and then you went left north on whatever road that is. >> Yeah. >> And then you worked your way back that way. I think I I think I might have just like took a left. So, I took a right, took a left, and then I think I took a left and then a right and then I came in from um I think uh down that road there's like a road that goes like a four-way and if you go straight and it's white drive, whatever. So, it be like the long way, but you go by like the bowl landing or whatever. >> So, you went past a bowl landing and came down west drive all the way down. Uh yeah, I think so. >> Okay. >> Like the names of it, but I mean I just >> And then [clears throat] when you left, do you remember how you left there to go to Meltown? [clears throat] >> I at the first curb I think I took a left and then [clears throat and snorts] I mean I >> that first road when you leave her house. >> Yeah. >> And that takes you over store. >> Mhm. >> And then you went Did you go straight north up to G and then that way to Miltown? Um, >> but I'm not concerned about your driving. >> I'm I'm I wasn't paying attention too much like where exactly like I was just like it I don't really know. I don't >> So tell me more about when you got to her place. Um, well, I was like super upset, you know, like just like I just worked and now I'm buzzed and like I was just going to hang out there until she got off work, you know, cuz that's why >> So, how did you get into her house? >> Her door's unlocked. >> Which door? >> The basement door. >> So, when you got out of your truck, the door that was right kind of in front of you on the left. >> Uh, yeah, the basement. There's only one. >> The one door. >> So, you went in there. >> It was [ __ ] cold. >> How far through the house did did you go all the way upstairs? >> No. >> How far into the house did you go? Um, I was only in there for like two minutes. Like I just I tried to call her. It was cold. I'm like, you know, like this is like And then she she didn't answer. So I called Logan and then I decided just to leave. >> Were you having a cigarette or anything while you were in there? >> I don't think so. I don't think so. Honestly, I don't know if like I just I wasn't >> cuz everybody we've talked to today. I just want to be fair, okay? And I'm not trying to pin anything on you. If something happened, it was an accident, it was an accident, right? >> But what I understand is you maybe tried to get the fire going or something. >> No, I never touched the fire. I don't know where the wood would be or anything. And like I just I didn't I didn't want to stay there unless she told me like it's cool. I just hang out there, you know, cuz I didn't like I'm sure she said obviously would have been fine. Like that obviously I could have stayed there, but it was cold and I was like tired and I was like, you know, like I don't know at that point. I just like I just gave up on >> Were the lights on? >> The basement lights were on. Yeah. [clears throat] >> Okay. Now, how many lights are down there? >> I don't know, [snorts] maybe like two or three like hanging lights or something. >> Okay, so when you enter that basement, where's that fireplace when you that stove >> to the when you walk in? You can only obviously go left cuz like it's a super and then it's on the right in the middle of the >> So, the the wood stove is kind of on your right when you go in. [clears throat] >> Did you walk past that? >> Yeah, I walked past it. >> Did you get to the stairs to go upstairs? the bottom of the stairs and then I turned around and like was by the top like I was sitting in there for like a couple minutes. Not even. >> Did you look up? Was there anything lights on upstairs? >> Upstairs. >> What was up? Could you tell what was on? >> No, I didn't. I didn't go upstairs. Did >> you see Christmas tree? >> She said she had a Christmas tree and like I don't I think it was a real one or something. I don't know. I just cuz I started thinking in my head like oh my gosh, did I do something wrong? Did I have a cigarette? Like did I did I trip over something? Did I knock a heater over? I don't know like if it so like I started like feeling like oh my gosh like this could be really bad like what if it's my fault you know and I don't know I don't have >> what if it's not an accident like it is an accident I feel like it's not >> my like her house is burnt down like I feel [ __ ] terrible you know I don't have an answer like how it happened but I mean it looks super bad that like oh my gosh like and I don't know how long it happened after I was there like I just don't >> it was quick >> see that makes me feel like I I did something wrong. >> So, let's talk about when you were at the bar. What What were you feeling when you found out all the cops were there for you? >> Uh, disappointed, like upset with myself. >> What did Who do you think called? >> I don't know. Probably Ricky or someone cuz like I was trying to kick him out. >> Did you have any um any frustrations with Alyssa? No, I would have been there like, you know, trying to hang out and just like wanted to get a drink with her there just like say hi, you know, >> even though everybody was calling her a snitch. >> No one think she called. >> No one was calling her a snitch. >> I understand Ricky was >> Ricky was calling everyone names. Like he was calling me like just he was very it was not I She wasn't in the bar most of the time that I was there because like I said, she walked outside for I don't know exactly how long. But >> did she go the front door or the back door? >> The back door. Like the employee bag is gone. >> Does anybody Is that trailer still back where somebody lived or is that gone? >> The ice shack's gone. >> Okay. Well, there used to be an actual trailer back there. >> Oh, I think that's still there. I don't think anyone lives there. >> So, she wasn't hanging out there. >> I don't know where she went. She just looked like she was frustrated and told me she had a bad night. So, I'm like, "Okay, well, >> so was it 5 minutes, 10 minutes?" >> She was out for gone probably half hour. 15 20 minutes and then um she came she popped back in and then she left again. >> Same door. >> Yeah. She was just I think she was just going out for a smoke just taking a breather knowing that I was like you know calling it and then she rang up the stuff on the table and she came in and did some dishes and we did a shot together and then what was it? >> And then you went right from after the cops left you went right to her place however you got there. >> Mhm. >> And you say you were only there a few minutes. Yeah. So then I just been driving and like I was just I don't know. >> And where did you go from there then? >> I went to my mom's. >> And who was your mom? >> Mom Michelle Larson. >> Michelle Larson. Where does she live? >> Miltown. >> Okay. >> Like uh in between Boston and Miltown. >> Okay. [snorts] And then how long are you there for? >> Let me 30 minutes maybe. >> Where'd you go from there? >> Uh I went to my apartment. >> Where's your apartment? in me. >> Okay. >> And then Alyssa and Alex, her baby daddy, they came and spent the night in my house afterwards. >> Okay. >> And I mean, I just >> So Alyssa came to your house after the fire and all that stuff. >> Yeah. She slept on the couch and he slept on the floor and like >> I don't know. >> How come you went to your mom's before you went home? >> Cuz she makes food. >> Oh, [snorts] mom raised. >> I don't really like to cook. cuz I go there like almost every day and like I don't know. >> Was mom awake when you got there? >> Yeah. She um I told her like you know what happened but I said I not about the fire. I didn't know about the fire but I told her that you know I almost went to jail you know probation cops everything and she's like >> cuz you've been at the bar or whatever. >> Yeah. So at that you know she knows that but like then like hours later I'm like oh my gosh this house burned down. I'm like and I was the last one there. Like that's >> okay. So, you went through the basement all the way by the stairs. >> How far up the stairs did you go? >> I didn't go up the stairs. >> Not one step. >> I didn't go up the stairs. I got to the bottom of the stairs. >> Stayed right there. >> Yeah. I just kind of turned around like pace and left >> and then walked right back out again. You never had a cigarette in there? >> I don't think so. >> I need I need >> I said don't think so. I don't I I don't know. I want to say no, but I don't know cuz >> What shoes were you wearing last night? >> Um, my other work shoes. >> Your other work shoe? Are they in your truck? >> No. >> Okay. Cuz we have foot practice. I just want to make sure we're eliminating everybody. And if it's your feet, then we can see if it's your feet. >> So, if you have those, if you could bring them in at some point just so we can see the bottoms of them so we have the foot footprints. >> That's nice. >> Um, cuz right now what we're doing is trying to eliminate everything we can, right? And figure out how her house burned to the ground. I mean, I I I understand that. Like, I I I feel guilty, but like I just I don't know cuz it [clears throat] you sure you didn't have a cigarette? >> No, I didn't I I can't say 100%, but I don't think >> it's possible. >> It's possible. >> I mean, it is, but like I just don't I don't know the last cigarette I had. Like, I know one year, but I was drinking. Like I don't know how many cigarettes I smoked or when I smoked them to be honest. I don't know. >> Okay. >> I don't know. And I'm sorry, but I wish I like I mean I don't know if it was the wood stove. I don't know what happened. I don't know if like I tripped over something that did something. I don't I mean I don't >> What's in that basement? >> A lot of shit's in the basement. Like it's it's like a path and like there's just a lot of stuff and there's >> like what I mean is there heaters or anything down there? I really didn't pay much attention to what was wrong. >> Well, you've been there before. >> Yeah, a couple times. But I mean, I was just on Hubert for 9 months. I haven't been there in a while. I've been there once since well, once before that last night. >> Okay. >> In like over a year or two years, probably even. >> Okay. >> I mean, I don't know. >> Do you have any questions? >> Yeah. So, you said you had your phone, right? Do you have your phone on you? No. Can you pull it out? Just I want to get some like some for sure time. So, you said you think you got done with work around 8 or 9, right? And then you went to the straight eight from there. >> Uh, yeah. I stopped at the gas station like >> Were you calling her? Were you calling? >> I called her when I was on my way coming like clean coming in like >> Sure. What time was that? >> That's how I tell what time I'm doing stuff is my phone nor text and photos and all that stuff. >> It would have been yesterday at 11:25 today. >> Okay. >> So 11:25 you were going to meet her there >> but she didn't answer. >> She didn't answer. You just knew she was working. Yeah. [snorts] >> Yeah. She said her phone was dead and it was on the charger or whatever when we talked to her today. Okay. And then uh what were you wearing that last night? Like full. >> He said were your work boots. >> Um I was wearing jeans like work shoes like these. >> These exact ones. >> No, they're ones like these but then these ones. >> Okay. Um, I switch out between those. >> What color are the other ones? Black. >> Just Nikes. >> What kind of pants did you have? >> Something like this. They're filthy. >> Just khaki types work pants. >> A light jeans. Yeah. >> Okay. [clears throat] What kind of shirt? What shirt do you have and stuff? Huh? >> I don't remember to be honest. >> Um, yeah. Actually, I wore a shirt that said shut up and fish. It's like a white shirt. I remember at the bar um someone made a comment about it was on his phone. So >> perfect. And then when all the cops and stuff came um what time was that, do you think? >> I don't know exactly how long I was there for, but I don't I don't I I don't know. I know that when I left and called her, that was at um let's see, it been like 1:40 in the morning. 1:40 a.m. I saw there was one there, right? >> Yeah. And then uh she didn't answer. So then I called her a couple more times like at 2:30, 237, 240. And then she called me back at 2:45. And then I talked to her. I told her back at 54 cuz I'm like, you know, what the hell would happen? Who you know, whatever. So I was like I was stressed out thinking I'm going to jail and she was like, we didn't have time to talk after obviously like the cops. see your call log again just cuz I'm turned. >> And is this do you text her or is it is it all phone calls? >> Phone calls. >> Okay. [snorts] I know pretty I don't spend a lot of time texting. So >> So 1212 is that the day before? >> Yeah, we talked almost every other day for week. I'm just going to click on that. Doesn't pull it up. And then so the next call, I know you were at her house at 12:41 a.m. >> 12:41. I don't know exactly what time. >> I know you were there. >> Okay. Well, >> okay. So, that tells me you were there almost an hour. >> An hour? >> Cuz this call is at 1:42 a.m. >> Well, I don't I mean, I've called her multiple times. I don't know. >> Well, no. You told me your first call to her was at 11:25. on my way to the >> to the bar and then you left there and you said you called her >> from her house. The next call was at 1:42 a.m. >> I don't know exactly the time. I don't I >> No, I'm telling you right there. It says one and I'm not I'm not I'm just trying to understand your timeline here. I'm not accusing anything. >> I'm I don't know. Okay. I don't know. I >> could You have been there an hour? >> No, absolutely not. I was in and out of there. I mean, I was talking to Logan when I was there, her cousin. >> Okay. And where is he on here? >> This is just her cousin. Man, what's >> um >> Well, I mean, I called him a bunch cuz I was like that person trying to get a ride and my phone was dead when I first was in my truck, so I had to go get a charger from her. So, I don't know what this is this is or my thing. Well, >> okay. So today, >> so 12:24 you called him >> cuz that the truck that I drive in and his names like >> And you were on the phone with him for 26. All these I'm guessing were not connected. >> Yeah, those aren't connected. But >> but you talked to him for almost 27 years >> on my way there when I was there. >> Okay. Um >> I don't know exactly. Like I said, I was pretty buzzed and I don't >> And then you called him. We talked to him for 26 minutes and then you called him again at 100 a.m. >> Then he picked me up from my mom's house. >> And that's when he picked you up from your mom's house. >> John was drinking conversations and regardless I didn't know, you know. >> Well, he declined your call at 1:35 1:42. >> A lot of these don't go through, but I [clears throat] mean >> he called you at 144, so he still had not picked you up yet. I'm guessing >> I don't know exactly what time it was. And he called you at 1:55 and it was 7second phone call and he doesn't talk to him again till 10:30 this morning. >> Well, when I left. Yeah, cuz he fixed my surger. But I mean, I talked to every day like we >> Did you call your mom before you went there? >> No. >> Okay. I talked to my mom [ __ ] here cuz I'm like mom you know she obviously knows that you know there's >> whose course you are my friend >> Cy. >> Why is this relevant to what's going on? >> Cuz I'm just trying to establish your timeline. >> I I I don't >> because you're the last person seen at her house before her house burned to the ground. >> I get that. Right. >> I get that. But >> and you're not you're it's not that you're not being trust not trustworthy but you're not being forthcoming. So I'm going through your to understand your timeline here. Okay. That's what I have to do. That's what we have to do. >> Okay. >> Okay. >> I'm sorry. >> And when you say that you talked to her when you tried calling her when you were at her house. I mean, yeah. I was on the phone with Logan. I'm I pretty sure I hung up the phone with him to call her or, you know, because what I mean, I did. And I tried. Yeah. I don't I don't know. Like I said, I was pretty drunk. I don't remember everything to the details and [snorts] >> I get that. >> I know. I was like I feel >> you my fault, you know. >> I want you to understand this. You said you tried calling her from when you were in her basement, >> right? That's what you told us. >> I believe I did. Yes. I mean, I know that I definitely tried to call her when I left there cuz I I heard I I don't know exactly like what the time was. was like, I know I tried to get a hold over and then I finally got a hold over. I'm like, dude, I'm like, what the hell? You know, >> because I know the fire was called in at 1:06 a.m. The fire was rolling at 10:06 a.m. >> Okay. [snorts] >> So, I don't think you tried calling her while you were there. >> Well, I tried to call her before I got there, like she didn't answer. And then I don't [clears throat] I tried to call her when I leave there cuz like either way, like I didn't know. I just I don't know. >> Cuz she called you at 11:39. I just panicked and went there cuz like I didn't want to get pulled over and go to jail cuz I'm on probation. So like it wasn't like >> you know. >> Mhm. >> Does [snorts] it go back any farther than >> last night around 11:30? >> Uh I I don't really know. >> Must not. >> Probably not with anyone. >> I don't know. >> Unless you >> I don't I don't believe my like my calls. Like that's >> okay. >> I don't. >> Okay. Is there anybody else you talked to when you were trying to figure this? >> No, I I tried to I I tried to call Logan especially cuz he I wanted to first get a ride out of the bar because I wasn't supposed to drive and the truck said his name and then I'm like okay, you know, I was going to jail or whatever. And then [snorts] he didn't answer. He didn't answer. Like I was just panicking. So I was drove. >> So who's Jeremy you called at 1:25 a.m.? >> That's my that is my like my neighbor like in my apartment >> in your apartment. And who's Jen at 125? >> Girlfriend, my good friends. >> All right. >> You were trying to get somebody to pick you up. Is that what you said? >> Yeah. I mean, I'm just I was like I this is my first time getting like a encounter with the cops or whatever. Like I didn't know nothing about a fire until like an hour or something afterwards when she texted me and said my house burned down. I'm like, "What the fuck?" >> So it's >> What kind of truck are you driving? It's a white um Chevy0000 you can register to Logan stuff. >> Yeah. >> What's Logan's last name? >> Um I don't know how to pronounce it. That's Snogles. >> Snuggles some I can tell you. >> Yeah, I mean he said I was stupid. was super driving like he but he you know he was >> okay so um [snorts] s e n o g l e s >> c >> s e n o g l >> okay she gave me that name too I know I never asked the spelling and I knew it was goofy Was Logan with you at all? >> No. Okay. >> That's all he at my mom's. >> He picked you up at your mom's. So you left the white truck at your mom's. Logan picked you up. >> That was Saturday at the department chap. >> You had to work the day, too? >> I just got off. >> Okay. Makes [snorts] sense that way. Um, was anybody with you when you left from the bar? Just you? >> Yes, ma'am. >> Okay. And then when you went to the house there, too, it was just you. Nobody was with you? No. >> Okay. cuz we're reviewing the camera. The neighbor across the way had camera. So, we're pulling that up. So, just one thing to just be honest with me, too. Just what I know or does that >> I know, but every now and then you're throwing uh >> I guess cuz I don't know specifically. I mean, I was paused. Like, I don't know exactly the times. I don't know exactly if I called her before I got there, when I was there, when I left. Like, I know I called her and I just like I was on the phone and he like like then he's like, "Okay, well, let's meet your whatever." So, I didn't want to hang out there. It was cold. Like I said. >> Okay. And then when you got there, where did you park at? >> I just pulled up right behind the white truck. >> And then you got out, went inside. It's unlocked. >> And then what did you do from there? >> Like I said, I went [ __ ] watching. It was cold. And I was like panicking like whatever. So I went to the bottom of the stairs, looked upstairs. I'm like, "Okay, well, no one's there." Like I I so I was like, "Okay, well I'm I'm just going to, you know, on the phone." Like what the hell, you know? >> So you tried calling? >> I was on the phone with Logan when I was there. >> Okay. Well, okay. >> Yes. >> I I I think I tried to call her right before I got on Logan when I was there. And [clears throat] like I don't remember if I hung up the phone and called her as I was leaving there. But either way I just like I was and like I didn't want to drive when I was drinking all the way home at first cuz like I just didn't >> Yeah. >> I shouldn't have been driving regardless. But >> so you went there and then you were talking to Logan. >> What were you guys talking about? >> Just the fact that I went to jail and like you know he's like what the hell? You know we not supposed to be driving. He's like why are you driving? I'm like, "Well, I'm just I'm just going to hang on this until she gets off and then, you know, just just be panic night, I guess." Nothing like nothing. >> Did he tell you to stay there as Alyssa's? >> Uh, no. Okay. >> I mean, I could have stayed there if I wanted to, but I just it was I guess it was cold and like I just didn't I just worked all day and I guess not the kind of night that I wanted and I was already in a bad mood and just >> whatever. So, hear me out. I hear you telling me you had a long day. >> I had a long day. >> You had a long day. >> You went and had a drink, which I could care less about. >> Okay. >> I I'm not judging. I'm not [snorts] pushing guilt or anything. >> I already feel guilty. Um, and I know I mean about what I'm going to tell you now is I we know it's been not that long that you've been sober from drugs, right? Like 6 months, a year. >> I'm just not offered. >> Mhm. >> Right. >> And that's what I'm saying. Don't take this offensively, okay? But when you were in there, you talk about I could have tripped. I could have done that. Something could have happened. >> No. >> And that's what I'm saying. I want you to understand if it was an accident, if you knock something over by accident, you're stumbling around in the dark in a cluttered basement, right? >> Did you fall? You must have fallen. You must have tripped over something. >> I didn't fall. >> Or you wouldn't have said I must have tripped over. >> I mean, I might have kicked something that might like I don't know what happens. I don't I can't say that I did something if I did. I don't know what happened. I mean, maybe it's just a coincidence like oh my gosh. Like I don't know. I don't know. You know how fighters work. on the holiday start and it says of like when it's like that I don't I don't I don't I want obviously like you I don't know if you did your investigation whatever like I'm sure you know you can see where it started like I don't know >> and in that video I want to I want you to tell me who was in that truck with you. >> I was by myself. >> Nobody was >> I was by myself. I just worked I wasn't I >> cuz we've got the video. >> Okay, great. And I'm sorry, but like I'm getting frustrated because like I feel like you don't believe me. Like I just don't have any more answers. I was by myself. >> Okay. >> I'm not lying. >> And you walk into that basement. >> It's cluttered. >> There's a lot of stuff in there. Yeah. It's a small basement. >> Probably haven't smoking a cigarette cuz you're stressed. >> I You've had a bad night. I can't say no. >> You just ran into the cops. It's the first time. You've never been arrested. >> I've been arrested. >> No. But you you knew you were in violation, right? Trying >> to do the right thing. It says, "I don't want to get in trouble." >> So, you're stressed because you knew you were wrong. You were doing something wrong, right? And you're like, "Shit, I'm going to jail." >> And the next thing you know, you're free. Free still. So, now you're like, "Uh, what do I do? >> I just want to get out of the bar." >> You want to get away from it. And now you're stressed. I chew tobacco. You probably pound a heater when you're stressed, right? And you enter that house in that basement and you're trying to figure out, can I stay here? It's cold. I'm falling over stuff in this basement. Did you put the cigarette in the basement? >> I can't tell you if I had a cigarette. I don't know. I can't I'm not going to admit something I don't know. So, I'm I'm sorry, but like I mean I I don't think that it's my fault that this happened, you know, even though it >> I'm not saying it's your fault. I'm saying >> it could be my fault. I don't know. >> Something happened. I know something happened. Obviously, like I >> Yeah, she lost her house. I feel terrible. >> Mhm. >> Right. >> And I know >> super suspicious, but I was right there. I guess like right before it happened. >> And I'm saying >> I don't >> It doesn't look suspicious as far as you did something wrong. >> What is suspicious is I think you're scared. And I think you're scared to tell us the truth. >> I don't I'm just like It's >> I need you to be as honest as you can. >> I'm being honest with you. I just I was I don't know. Oh, it looks terrible. I feel terrible. I don't know if I mean if >> So, hear me out. >> I don't want to go to jail because I if I did have a cigarette and it like even know if anything happened like >> I will tell you right now, you're not going to go to jail if you put out a cigarette and it was >> I don't remember having a cigarette. I honestly like that's like one thing I >> So, hear me out. >> It's hard to remember that, but it could have been a cigarette maybe. I don't know. I don't know. When you were in the jail, did you partake in any programs for sobriety or any of that stuff? >> Did you do anything to try to have you ever done anything for whether it was drug court or any of that stuff? >> Yeah. >> In that the road to redemption is relieving yourself of the stress of this stuff, right? >> And what happens is what I hear, and I've been doing this 30 years, what I hear is somebody that's scared that thinks if they say what happened, they're going to get in trouble. And you're not. Well, >> you're not going to get in trouble if it was an accident. It's an accident. >> I It obviously was an accident, whatever it was, but I don't know if it was caused by me. I mean, it >> I don't know. >> All the evidence is saying something happened when you and I would like you to feel comfortable just telling me. >> Yeah, I had a cigarette and it fell on the ground and my muscle started fire. I can't say that cuz I don't know 100%. I mean, I'm sure I don't know. >> Was there like a gas heater or a propane heater? You know what those look like? The glow. >> I wasn't looking for anything for specifically. I was just cold and I was just like [snorts] >> powering through this basement. >> Yeah, cuz like I Yeah. I don't know what happened. I don't know if something got knocked over. I don't know. I really don't know. And if you [clears throat] if we find out now, if you feel comfortable telling us, we can work with that. We can chalk that up to an accident. The problem is is if you sit here and keep telling me, "I don't know. I don't know. I don't know. >> But I didn't like us. I don't know. I don't I don't I can't give you the answer. What happened? Like I don't know. I came here to tell you. Yes, I was there. No, I don't know what happened. Yes, there was a fire. And if I I can't say that it was my fault. So, I don't that is I don't know. I don't know what started. I mean, I don't know if you checked everything. I'm sure you guys did. Okay. Well, then I don't know, >> you know. But this isn't like TV where our analysis comes back and we have evidentary, you know, the findings >> an hour later. That comes in time once we're done with everything. >> What we have is you at the house at 12:41 for an normal amount of time. You're saying a couple minutes leaving? >> No, because the power went out. >> What did was the camera on the same road that I left on or on the same circuit? So all the power went out. before I even got out of there. >> I don't know. >> That's >> So, I'm telling you, I know you got there. I see you pull in the driveway. I see you get out of the car. >> Your phone got >> You say you're on the you tried calling her from the basement when you're in the basement. >> I don't know exactly when I tried. I don't I knew I was like my phone just turned on. I was already like halfway to her house when my phone turned on. >> So, I >> I'd have to look myself. I was drinking. I wasn't like I don't remember exactly the times I call people all the time. Actually, we looked at your phone. >> Okay, great. Then you know, >> so I know you were there at 12:41. If you say you called her when and you told us you tried calling her when you were in her basement >> that's 1:30 somewhere in the basement, but I did try calling her either right before I got there or when I was there. I don't know exactly how >> you were there more than a couple minutes. >> No, I really wasn't. I I especially like there was no sign of anything when I left the house. Like there's So the power was on. Obviously, I didn't shut any lights up. >> Mhm. >> So, I don't know why the camera went out. Like, I don't know. That doesn't make sense to me because >> What was at the bottom of those stairs when you got to the stairs? >> This is the path. I don't know. >> What kind of stuff did you see? Describe. I need you to describe what you saw. >> I don't know. I mean, there's a bunch of stuff. I wasn't like looking through our stuff. I was not >> But you're aware enough that there's a lot of stuff in your way and you may have kicked something over. >> It does. You've seen you supposed you haven't seen the basement before, but now I'm like, well, there's a lot of stuff everywhere. >> It's a small. >> What the stove look like when you were down there? >> It's a black stove. My exact gave it to her. >> Who? >> My exact like two years ago or something two and a half years ago or something. >> Do you know when that got put in? >> I don't know. two and a half years ago, two years ago. I don't know. I thought it was a big chimney problem or something. It's like I don't know. >> She had chimney problems. >> I mean, Zach used to stay over there a lot. He put the stove in like it just it's you had to put like a custom chimney in there cuz it's not the brick one on the side of the house. I don't have you seen that obviously then. >> Mhm. >> Right. So, I don't know how I was running this year. Like I haven't been there when there's a fire. I don't know if there was a fire going or anything. >> What's Zach's last name? >> Alison. He's not He was nowhere near and he like >> Where's he live though? >> He was living with me, but like that didn't work out. So he was staying with her uncle or something. >> He's been missing actually here for like >> was he the guy that disappeared? >> Supposedly he might just He does that a lot. Mhm. >> Was there fire in the stove? I didn't open this one. >> But you couldn't hear it or smell it or >> I mean it was cold. So I mean I don't know. >> It's just cold outside. Just say it was just cold. I don't [snorts] I don't know. Last time she put water in there. >> Was what was the lights? Was it [snorts] clear in there? Was it smoky? Was it >> It's not good lighting. I don't It wasn't >> I didn't notice anything like out of the ordinary. Do you hear any noises when you went inside? >> No, not anything. >> So, it was cold. As far as you know, there was no fire even going in there. >> I Yeah. Wasn't paying attention, right? I just my brain was [ __ ] like just worried about >> when we were talking. You said you think you were talking to Logan while you were in the basement. >> I Yeah. And I was talking to him most like the way that I was driving. But I mean, >> so if we go through your phone, whether you give us consent or not, we're going to get a warrant. Okay, >> that's okay. That's >> perfect. There's not going to be any conversations on there, anything on there that you're forgetting right now. >> I don't think so. >> Cuz this is your one opportunity if it's an accident, which we think it is. I >> This is your one chance. Otherwise, unfortunately, it looks like something malicious is happening, >> right? And I don't want to believe you. >> I mean, okay. Well, I don't know what else to tell you guys cuz like I already feel bad about the whole scenario. I already feel >> I'm not I feel bad. I'm not worried about Feel bad for her. Yes. >> What I'm worried about is you're scared to tell us what actually happened. >> I'm not scared of what happened. I'm just It's a I be in I've been fine right now. I'm scared to go to jail. Something happened. I'm I was scared to go to jail last night. So I mean when I was buzz I mean >> I don't know. >> But I need you to tell me the truth. Now the time. >> I told you everything I know. >> No, you're not. >> Okay. Well then I want to go but I don't want to talk to you anymore because I don't know what else to tell you. And like I already like this is a just I don't know. I'm sorry. I don't have more answers for you. The hard part for us is it like it's not lining up. >> You know what I mean? Like that's the hard part. Just being honest with you, right? So like trying to like I'm trying to follow them ahead cuz I wasn't there. Right. >> So we've gone kind of here and then we've gone back and we've gone over and then the times don't line up. >> I don't it was I was drinking. I don't know exactly the time I even left work even. Like I just don't know. Okay. I just I don't pay attention to time when like you don't need to be somewhere on time. like it's I don't know if I was at the bar for 40 minutes or like an hour and a half. I don't know. I don't know. You know, I like I said, I don't know. And it it doesn't make sense to me either. And like I obviously want the answer for everyone. So like >> So to help your story, okay, >> you're going to give us permission to look at your phone. >> Can you just look through my phone? >> Well, no. We need I need we got a guy on Monday that will plug into the phone, make a copy of the phone so we can go through it and confirm your story cuz it's all about confirming your story because you don't remember anything, >> right? >> And the only thing that usually >> we've agreed is your phone kind of tracks your life, right? >> Yeah. >> And that that's your truth is the phone, >> right? So then >> so if you give us permission, we'll take the phone. >> We can't take it now. I mean, I want the weekend to bring it to you Monday or something. >> Well, we can't do that. >> Well, do you have to have a warrant to take it? >> No, I can take the phone now and I have to get a search warrant. >> Well, that's not fair to me. Like, I'm willingly saying you can't. >> Do you want us to believe you or not? Do you want us to believe you or not? >> I want I don't want to use my phones all weekend. Like, that's not like >> It's 2 days. It's already late Friday night. You can survive without a phone. If he's going to plug it in and see everything anyways, like why >> if he's going to plug it in on Monday and see everything anyways, then he could do that Monday and he'll see everything anyways. If it's obviously >> But unfortunately, if something happens and you accidentally swipe the phone, then we got problems. >> That's okay. >> You know what I'm saying? >> Yeah, I do. I mean, I feel like I'm being like, >> "No, we we just know you're the last person at our house." >> Yeah, but like I mean >> and you don't remember anything? >> I do remember some things. I just I don't understand. Do you remember? >> I told you what I remember. I'm sorry. I don't know. I don't know if I had a cigarette. I don't know what time I was there. I don't know what time exactly the minute that I left. Like I don't know. >> So why did you not stay there? >> Why didn't I stay at the bar and not drive? I don't know. Okay. Cuz I just wanted it. This is not how I wanted my night to go. I was panicking. >> The bar I understand cuz the cops are living in there. This Ricky guy's being a pain in your ass. Right. >> You know you're in trouble for being there, but you you're like, "I'm a free woman right now, so I don't want to go back in there." So, you leave, right? >> Yeah. >> You go to your friend's house, >> right? >> And you leave. >> I've never been in her house by myself. So, like I was just like I just >> So, why did you go there in the first place? >> Cuz it's closer. It's like way closer than my house. Like all the way in Miltown. Like I didn't know like I didn't know if I was going to commit to that drive. Like I Alyssa's not going to drive all my house cuz her drunk truck's not I don't know. Cuz [sighs] [snorts] I mean right now what we could what what I have the ability to do is take your phone. >> I could I'm guessing you were wearing that jacket last night. >> Actually I wasn't. >> What jacket were you wearing? >> I was wearing my black jacket. >> And where's my >> It's at my house, but it's super thin and it's really cold outside. So I mean I >> We can hold your car. >> Hold my car. Where the >> Listen. Listen. >> Can I go home? Like I don't want to be like accused right now. >> I'm not accusing. I know. You're making me like feel like I'm like I'm already like super upset about this whole situation. Like I don't know. You're I mean, you said I could be freely. I'm trying to help. I'm trying to figure it out with you guys and I'm sad for her. I'm upset for her. I can't make the house come back. I don't know what happened. Okay. I don't know exactly how it started. If I sick it or not. I don't know. I was drinking. >> I'll just talk to him. I'll go. Just go. >> Our best bet is to rule you out as a suspect. That's what that's what all those things would do, >> right? >> So, your phone, even dumping it, would rule you out as a suspect. It would collaborate your statement that you just gave us. It would rule you out and then we can look other places. That's what we're trying to do. That's the scheme of a a criminal investigation is figure out who's the possibilities. You're a possibility that we've identified via that camera and the neighbors. Right. I know that. >> And then we also have a footprint. >> I'm not saying I wasn't because I know that. >> Yeah. Part of that was like that's what we're saying. We're trying to get the fair assessment and we we haven't got it cuz you're just in >> I mean I let you guys see my call logs. I know I don't really have that many text messages. I don't really text and like this just happened last night. Like I we we last night I had to work through >> but there's location there's other stuff that would even just without a call >> completely tell you exactly >> exactly and then we could give you a phone back and we could be done. That's the the what we're looking for. >> Monday though it's like >> yeah it is shitty though. It's the weekend, but that's the way it goes. So, part of that is like, we're not trying to inconvenience, but to your I get it, but you're the last person in a house before, >> but we could have just arrested you then on the suspicion of the crime and that's why we put it out ahead of time >> because we didn't think it was likely that you did it on purpose one cuz intent's part of the crime, right? An accidental firing is not illegal. So, like that's what we were banking on. It's like, hey, maybe she messed with the stove and something happened and she didn't mean to and she left and it and it burned down. That's honestly what we were thinking. Soon as she identified that as that that was my friend's truck and not somebody that was mad at me, we were like, "Okay, then maybe this is like an accidental thing, right? >> Might have to figure that's all I can think of that could happen >> or maybe an accident. I don't know. I don't remember." And that's the hard part is cuz you keep mentioning those but we can't confirm them because you came. >> Yeah, it's going to like show on my phone cuz my phone was not it'll show I was there when I left. >> But and and if you can articulate that you were there and you left within 2 minutes cuz of Gio and then you talked to Logan the time and we talked to Logan and then once we get that on paper that shows that that clears it then we're done with you as a suspect. Okay. >> Does that make sense to it? >> It's not really I think what you guys are trying to do. I do. I >> We're trying to get justice for her, right? >> Wouldn't it be fair to if if your place burned down, you'd want us to do the same thing, right? >> Yes. >> So, that's what we're doing. >> Your own friend's house burned down. So, like that's the kicker of like I get that it's inconvenience. I wouldn't want to give up my phone for a couple days either, but if my friend's house burned down and I can prove I didn't do it, I'll give my phone for a couple days. >> Yeah. >> Right. >> Yes. But >> is it I just I don't know. >> We're not looking for anything else on there. We're not going to give a [ __ ] if you you know what I mean. Even dork stuff, all that [ __ ] I don't care. I'm deal I'm I'm a fire mushroom. I'm not. We're not looking for that stuff. That's why we give you gave you a blanket. We're not arresting you today when you were coming in because it's like there's too much unknown right now. That's why that will help clear up honestly half of what we got going right now. And then if that camera didn't catch anybody going there, then it's likely something failed. If you can confirm that you were there that quick and didn't mess with anything and stuff and we go, then that that's more leaning towards something failed in the house. But then I got to be able to write that in a report so insurance can pay money and she can get back and all that kind of stuff. But if I put I can't rule you out as a suspect, they're not going to pay and she's not gonna get her stuff back and it's just a rigor and then I didn't do my job. >> Okay, I get that. So, it's just it's it is a shitty situation that we're both dumped in and it it's that's why we were wondering just about intent and then I didn't hold that I didn't get the um lens before that you had that much to drink. It sounded like you were working there with her. So, I thought you were pretty sober and stuff. That's all. >> So, we're coming. >> Yeah, but I didn't know how long you were there. She >> I don't even know exactly how long. Like I said, I don't have the exact >> She mentioned the same thing that she was getting crushed at work. She asked you to step in there. She and then she talked about the people getting angry about it and then somebody get mad that knowing you were on paper or something. So, then they called and ratted on you >> and that caused the drama and stuff that way. So, but like >> Yeah. >> How long were you on Uber? >> That was for drug stuff for OWI or what? >> I was on for probation for drug stuff. >> You been clean since? [clears throat] >> I thought you meant messing up. talking in my head like I don't want to talk anymore. I want to go home and I want to learn. This is going to come down to like I don't know like how incriminating everything is going to be like for other like people not like with this situation. I just don't know like what extent I'm trying to help by coming here. I didn't have to come here. I don't have to talk to you guys. >> I would agree. Part of it is we're just trying to narrow that scope for the fire. You know what I mean? It's just the fire. That's why we said a blanket. Don't worry about the drug stuff. Don't worry about the drinking stuff. That ain't what we're looking at. It's >> I'm going to be >> somebody's house burned down last night and we want to help. >> So, the big thing we're going to do now is we're going to take your phone >> and I'm going to just Yes, we're taking your phone. >> How could you know when I willingly came in here? Like, that's a trap. >> No, it's not. Yes, it is a trap, boogie. That's just not I don't >> No, it's like the same as I explained it before that we we could have gone full court and just >> look through my phone. I don't want to give it to you. Like I mean like I just I don't want to be my phone. Like I >> I get that. Like we talked about it before. Like I get the inconvenience, but none of us can do the download that needs to be done right now. That's why it's Friday night. the tech person's gone and we need the download that has a specific location that that we can go through your call log and make a quick map of like who was there. We're going to talk to Logan so he can say when he was talking on the phone and if he was sober you can tell what we were saying, >> what you're doing all that. Then we'll get it all going. Like I said, if I could give my phone for 2 days to solve my friends or at least eliminate me as a suspect, I'm going to do it. And we're not looking for drug stuff and we're not going through that stuff. So, I know everybody's got something goofy in the phone that they're worried about kind of thing, but we're going for the fire data and that kind of stuff. Does that make sense? So, that's what we were saying before. I didn't we didn't want to just pull up arrest you, grab the phone, take it, and pound your truck and just go full court as a suspect. We wanted the courtesy to go, but we then we always have options in our toolbox to go like, well, if they don't want to cooperate or [snorts] if they don't want to go here, we can do these other options, right? They're not our first step cuz a consent's easy. We fill out a piece of paper, we get the consent, and then soon as it's done Monday, you come pick it up. If we got to take it, maybe we got to wait till the search warrant on Monday. And it and it could take longer in the process that way, too. It's just just how it works. So, cuz since obviously always the easiest, it's still your your choice whether consent or if we do the search warrant. That's the kicker. But that's going to either rule you in as a suspect or rule you out. And that's part of our investigation. Okay. But I mean like you guys still have a phone for me from last time I got in trouble and I tried numerous times to get it back from you guys and I don't get it back. >> Well, that was a different type of case though. That was a drug case. >> Yeah. So drug cases are different because the phone becomes evidence of self of the crime and it's in it's used in commission of a crime. So if you buy, sell, or use same big thing now. If I have anything other illegal on my phone, then you're going to keep it regardless. Like I I'm just not >> Okay, that's fine. And I'm not we're not going to argue with you, Ashley. We're not going to argue with it. So, we're going to take the phone and I'm going to get a search warrant. Okay? I don't want I'm not here to argue fair. Like, why are we even coming here to help you guys? You're not listen. >> Stop for a second. Take a breath. Okay? Just listen to me for a second. Okay? >> So, based on what you're telling us and based on the fact that I you're holding back on something and I don't know what you want to tell that is this, >> but we don't know that. And so when there's stuff that you don't tell us and we can tell you're holding back, that's where the problem lies. And again, I don't care if it's drugrelated cuz I kind of feel like it might be drugrelated in some sort. >> Yeah. Okay. >> Agreed. >> Yep. >> So So do you get where I'm coming from? That's why at this point now we feel like you're not telling us the whole truth. And again, I told you you weren't going to get arrested. That's that's my word. I said that. >> That's my word. I didn't say anything about the phone. My plan was not to collect your phone or anything, but again, you're not telling us everything >> and you can't remember everything either. >> It's not my phone. I don't remember everything. >> No. No. And that's and that's not what I'm saying is that your phone is going to prove anything or disprove anything, but it's just another tool we use to do our investigation. >> But but here's my thought. Okay, so here's my thought. Hon honestly what I think is that you went in there and I don't know again if it's drug related um that's kind of the feeling I get right and I don't care about that but something happened while we were in there that um that somehow at some point sparked a fire again it doesn't make it intentional I'm just going to close this just for it doesn't make it intentional it doesn't make it any less accidental whether you you were mad and you you you threw something. I I don't know. But what I'm saying is something happened and you're not telling us. Okay. And so until we know what happened, it it doesn't change anything. >> It really doesn't. >> She asked for a lawyer, so we can't talk anymore. Okay. >> So hand your phone over and we're going to move so you can go home. Yes, we can. So turn your phone over. We're done. So, Ashley, we can we can take the phone. Um, >> can I call my mom? Can I make >> You want to call your mom? Go ahead and call your mom. >> Yep. >> But we're done talking cuz you asked for a lawyer. So, we're going to take your phone. You can go to your mom's. Um, we're going to go to your house and do a search warrant at your house. >> At my house. >> To get your clothes that you said are there. >> I will give you my clothes. >> That's fine. Then we can go there and get your clothes. >> We'll follow We'll follow you there and grab the clothes. That's That's really all we're looking for. >> But you're not under arrest. Is is there any reason Ash actually I guess I can't really say much but um yeah we'll just we can follow you there and grab the clothes and then we'll take the phone but then we'll we'll leave you be >> but call your mom quick. So >> yeah. Can I go I'm going to drive and like I'm going to This is like just >> Are you revoked or suspended? >> No. No. >> Okay. I didn't know. Yeah. >> I'm just asking. >> This is like this is way more I'm just trying to like figure out the fire thing. Like this is trying to like No, I feel like I'm being arrested. No. And you're not you're not being arrested at all. But but we're going to take the phone. >> We're going to take we'll call from our you guys are like cornering me right now. Yes, you are. >> The door's wide open. You just got to give us the phone and you can call from our landline or another phone. But right now, our policy is you can't make a phone call. You can't use the phone anymore. >> Okay. >> Okay. So, why don't you hand me the phone and we'll call mom. >> You'll call my mom. >> Well, you will, but no sign of the phone. >> Call me. You're going to search my house for the clothes. You told us if you want to just give us the clothes and the shoes. We'll just >> We're done. >> That's it. That's all we're looking for. >> Well, I mean, >> I can get this back on Monday. Like, >> um maybe t Tuesday. >> Oh, he's on my rotation. We're technically off Monday. Um so, it would be Tuesday, but he would work on it. I would have him work on it right away Tuesday. Yeah. >> Okay. Here you go. >> Okay. >> Thank you. What is the code to get in it? >> 0525. >> I'm sorry. What? >> 0525. >> Just four digits. >> Okay. All right. Um, >> this is legal like I mean we'll give you consent to do it. >> No, we're going to use to do that. >> No more already on it. I just want to make sure the >> it's legal for you to take it without like I want that's why I want a lawyer present before they even take my phone cuz like they might say it's not legal and that we don't have I'm not under arrest. >> No, absolutely not because we can take the phone because it's something that you can delete things off of and change and alter the data scan. >> So, so that's why we take it and that's perfectly legal. And then what we do is we do um the warrant and the warrant we have to apply for it. It's not a given but we apply for it and then the judge if the judge grants us the warrant then we can >> go through it. So it doesn't >> we we we don't go through it until we have the warrant because we can't use anything if we go through it. It doesn't do us any good to go through it ahead of time. >> So >> yeah but that's what they're doing right now. So what's that? >> That's what they're doing right now. They shouldn't be. >> Well, they shouldn't be closing usually closing. It doesn't I don't know what you find, but like >> Well, and that's just it. Maybe we'll find absolutely nothing. But our job actually is we h we have to to follow the evidence, right? You were there. Like I said, I feel like you're holding back. >> Okay. And you've asked for a lawyer. So, it it the conversation as far as that goes is done. But um what we can do is we can go collect those clothes and then um then we'll be out of your hair. >> So if we follow you there and we get the clothes then we'll just be done. >> Just this is like if it's an accident like you said is an accident like that's and that's what we're trying to get to the bottom of. So >> this is like this is >> I already feel like it's my fault. >> I just I want to be clear. I haven't I don't want you think I'm lying to you about you go. So right now you can't go home because you said you want a lawyer. >> You can go anywhere. >> What do you mean I can't go home? >> Well, you can't go into your house. You're going to get a search warrant. Just All I'm going to do is get the closer. He did call me and also >> unfortunately because you wanted a lawyer and it it got heated and you were frustrated. I feel like I'm better. >> No, I never I told you I didn't know like it's more like you have a choice. Ashley, listen. >> Why did you help? >> I'm telling you you had a choice. Okay. >> I have a choice. I chose to come here. I didn't try for two seconds. Leave the next I'll leave you alone. I'm stressing you alone. Let's just let's have just a logical conversation. I'm not going to question you. Okay? I don't I just want to talk to you about what is going on. So, my name's Riley C. >> I am a special agent with the Wisconsin Department of Justice, the Division of Criminal Investigation. Okay. >> I'm assigned to the state fire marshall's office. >> Okay. >> Okay. I understand you're upset. >> Fair. Yeah. >> You're upset. >> Yeah. >> I am very appreciative that you've willingly drove here and you willingly talked with us. >> Yeah. >> Cool. Okay. Just can you just hear him yell? >> Yeah. [snorts] >> You're being cool. Okay. Do I think you were intoxicated last night? Do I think that there might be some stuff you you're leaving out whether it's >> unrelated to this specific event? Possibly. >> Okay. >> Probably. That's >> I don't give a [ __ ] about drugs, being on bond for alcohol, whatever. I'm here to investigate a fight, >> right? >> That's it. Okay. So, now sitting here, put yourself in my shoes for like 30 seconds, right? You're at the bar and you're at the bar. You [snorts] go to victim's house. We have you on video going there. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Yep. 100%. You leave and like 15 minutes later the house is on fire, >> right? And I didn't know that, but I mean I knew that once it was on fire, I'm like, "Oh my god, like that's my fault." [snorts] And cuz like I was the last one there. Like I felt like it was my fault. Like I didn't want to like >> you feel shitty as a friend or as a person. >> I just don't know like >> I don't know like how the hell >> I don't want to talk about the fire. I'm just I'm just telling you the totality of what of what I'm dealing with. Okay. So then you leave. >> Okay. You hear about the fire last night. You don't voluntarily provide information that you were there until it's known that your vehicle was there. >> Well, just don't ask that. Just let me talk all. Okay. >> I know. I feel like I'm going to probably it's my fault. So, like obviously that's hard for me to be like, "Hey, you know, and if I say, "Yeah, it's probably my fault." Then then what? Then it's like, "Oh my god." >> Just I I do not I don't know, >> you know. I don't I don't know. I didn't think about all this. >> Okay. So then you voluntarily come in >> 100% appreciative. Okay. >> But when we were conducting investigation, we have to gather information. >> Yeah. >> Okay. We have to determine a hypothesis and we have to prove the hypothesis by data points or data collection. And if that hypothesis is improved, we have to start over again. Okay. >> So if I accidentally burn the house down, >> so what we're doing then >> what's that? >> If I accidentally burn your house down, then what? >> If you accidentally burned it down, you accidentally burned it down and life goes on. >> But it's still my fault then. >> No. Okay. There's a difference between There's four types of classifications for a fire. Accidental, natural, undetermined, or incendiary. Incendiary means a summon satisfier. Okay. What we need to do is we need to eliminate you as a suspect. The only way we can eliminate you as a suspect because truly we feel like you're holding back [snorts] or withholding some information, which it is what it is. >> We need to prove >> 100%. We need to prove that you're not a suspect. Okay. As of right now, you're not under arrest. Okay? You were told you're not going to jail. >> There's obviously something in your phone. You don't want law enforcement to see it. >> Whether it is to like just >> hear me. >> So, we need to prove that you're not a suspect and prove you're not involved. You're the last one at the fire scene before go before it starts on fire. Okay? You were intoxicated. You admitted to being there and as of right now there's questions about the cause of the fight. Okay. What we are trying to do is we want to gather your clothing that you were wearing last night. >> Yeah. >> Okay. And we'll take that as evidence and we'll test it for ignitable liquids. >> I don't know what that is. >> Gasoline starter fluid. >> They're probably going to find a lot of coolant. I work in a machine shop, so I'm bathed in coolant constant. >> Okay. [clears throat] >> Machine coolant. >> They can test the difference between whatever. >> Um and then to determine location services within your phone. >> Mhm. >> Maybe stored or deleted text messages, conversations, whatever. Okay. >> Yeah. Well, I mean that's just is that relevant to like what happened there? Like I mean I don't know. That's relevant to a couple day time frame. The last couple days, we're not digging through your phone. >> Day time frame. >> Well, the fire was or to the fire was today. So, from yesterday to today, we're not digging through your phone for weeks. All right. >> I just don't know. I just don't know cuz like there's just I don't know. I just never had a good experience when it comes to like couch, I guess. And I mean, especially like >> and I accept that. Okay. You got to understand is you don't know me. I have no idea who you are. Okay. I don't work for the Pokemon Sure. So, obviously for the state of Wisconsin. Okay. Obviously, you're getting upset. >> Yeah. >> I understand that. Okay. But you I I think it sort of sounds like you requested an attorney. You want to talk to attorney legal >> that ends that ends questioning. Okay. >> Okay. I can't come say to you, hey, give me consent to search your house and you're not going to go to jail. Me personally, I would take that as somewhat of coercion. Okay. So, we need to get the evidence from your clothes. So, as of right now, I can't just let you give you my clothes. I'm not trying to I'm going to let you go through my phone. Do I want you to have my phone? No. Do I want my clothes back? Yes. Like I know your situation. What they're going to do is they're going to make a they're going to make a call to the district attorney, okay? Or the on call district attorney >> who is in charge of handling cases and to see if they feel it's plausible that we can gather consent. You just said that you wanted to provide it >> what they want% I don't want to lose my phone. Like I just said I don't think it's whatever. I guess I don't know. I'm just identical >> and I I would be in the same exact moment. If I didn't if I didn't have my phone for a day, I'd be upset, too. >> But you need to understand it's just >> But you need to understand where we're at, too, >> right? I mean, >> yeah, let's just have no communicating with anyone now. Like I just like I just never got my phone last time. Like I mean, you guys can't go through it. So you couldn't but >> we can't go through like deleted data and we can't go through location services and there's things that we can't go through Facebook, you know, I mean like there's things that could have been on your phone that you could have deleted hypothetically. [snorts] >> All right. That we wouldn't see. Correct. >> Probably Yeah. Me like, yeah. >> And that's all I'm getting at. >> I don't want you to be pissed off. Okay. You seem like you're you're on the right path. Sounds like you've had some trouble in the past, but you're trying to push forward and you're trying to better yourself. True. True story. >> Yeah. And actually burn. I don't know. >> But there's a reason you keep saying that. >> Because I was there right before it happened. Like how would I not think that? Like I mean like that. And like and then once I found out it burned down right after I left my home, I probably burned her house down. Like [snorts] >> what we need to do is we need to corroborate >> the information that you've provided. Okay. So whether you were alone, whether you're with someone, whether >> um >> Okay. Well, I mean, I I guess I I stopped at my co-workers after I went to the gas station before I went to the bar and that's [clears throat] I mean I don't know what matters. I don't know how much it matters like to be like so like about my time and my story or whatever, but like I just I [snorts and clears throat] >> So what I'm asking to >> I'm asking just to chill out for like a little bit. Take a breath. [clears throat] I got a job. I got an apartment and like I like I don't want to like go to probation war or the probation in [ __ ] jail. I just don't want >> I just I feel bad for her. I'm being [clears throat] selfish by even like making this about myself, but I mean it just >> 100%. It is about you. >> No, it's really not. It's like >> life should be about you. >> No, but it's her life sucks right now. And I feel like it probably was my fault. But [snorts] >> this is the deal. No one got hurt. >> I know. got killed. >> Property can be >> if I'm like, you know, just in general, it's just I feel like it's my fault. And it probably is. I don't know. [snorts] >> So, I'm asking you just to chill out for a little bit, settle down, take a breath. >> Nothing is going to benefit by getting pissed off. >> I just want to do that now. >> You're going home. I'm telling you that, right? It may not be this moment. >> Why? I don't know. I just I'm like upset just cuz like I just feel like this is not going to end well. >> I'm on probation and I've just violated. Like I still want to violate. I didn't call my PO today cuz like I just I didn't >> that has that stuff has nothing to do with me though. >> I know. That's on you. I know that >> I can't I can't help that you didn't call your PO. You know what I'm saying? like I'm not calling your what I could do is I could call your probation and be like, you know what, this is what we have going on. There's probably enough to put a hold on you for the weekend and just be done. You go to jail, but then you know what? It puts a bad taste in your mouth because once again, you're getting screwed over by law enforcement or whatever. Okay, we're not doing that. >> I'm not saying that it's bad. I get you guys have a job to do. I get like you know this is like this is and there was another fire today in Miltown like my uncle's brother was fired like right I heard about that one but no I mean shut [snorts] up >> you get called from agencies when they need assistance >> today even like I exploded when he was in the shower his garage or something right everyone from the fire department was there like I heard about this cuz like >> to be honest with you I don't even know where Miltown is. I'm not from here. >> This room. >> So, um, hang tight. Take a breath. We need something in there. >> I just want to go. >> I get that, but you're not. >> I'm sorry. I'm going to be healthy longer for >> So, we can figure out whether we're going to if you're going to be transported or followed to your house or >> I'm not going to jail. [clears throat] >> No, you're not going to jail. >> But then why would I be transported? Can I just meet you? Like, >> I got to see what they want to do. This is their account. We have to follow [snorts] legal guidelines. Okay. >> Yeah. >> Um and it's if it's whatever their district attorney feels comfortable with, that's what we'll do. So, just hang tight for a second. Take a breath. Do you want something to drink? Do you want a fist bump? Make it feel better. Not at all. You leave me hanging. There you go. Oh, man. >> All right. Take a breath. I'll bring it back. Do you need Can I help you with anything? No, I'm just like I'm nervous. >> Well, stop being nervous. >> No, I'm going to be nervous. You know, someone's house is burned down. I was the last one there. [snorts] No, >> just have a seat. Stay here. Be comfortable. >> Just stand up and just like >> You can stand up [clears throat] and Yeah. Just hang out here now. Okay. >> Take a bad news. Just joking. Got good news. I'm the bearer of good news. Right. >> Um, sounds like they're going to get a consent form >> to allow access into your house just to grab the clothes that you were wearing last night. We're going to follow you there and uh you're going to go home and we'll be in touch. [snorts] Hold on. >> Um, how about we schedule a time where you come in Would this your phone done Monday or Tuesday or something? So, how about we schedule a time like Monday afternoon evening to where we just meet you here. We give you your stuff back and we go from there. That work? >> Can't hear you. Um, but yeah, >> tomorrow's Yeah, but tomorrow's Saturday, like Monday I'm talking. It's >> not the end of the world. >> I know. >> What's your >> I just feel like it's my fault, you know? It probably [clears throat] is, but wasn't my intention? Things happen. >> Yeah, they do. >> I'm just going to tell you this and just let's leave it at this. Okay. >> If you think of something, I'll give you my card. I'll give you my card before we leave. If you think of something that's important, okay, or something that you may not want to get off your chest in the next few days, call me. I'll be around the weekend. Find a phone, phone a friend, whatever. Send me smoke signals. Um, if there's something that you're like thinking about, I'm just telling you >> cuz Yeah, >> hear me out. I'm just telling you, you seem like you're heading in a in a in a better direction, okay? You don't want something to bring you back down in the future. Okay? So like what I call it is this is just a bump in the road. All right? And we have bumps in the road quite often. Even myself definitely not perfect human being. You ask my wife or my kids, they'll tell you. If there's something going on, something you want to discuss, I will come in and I'll talk to you. >> Okay. >> Just being reckless yesterday. >> H >> I was just being reckless this morning or yesterday, whatever time it was. I was pretty drunk. I don't I don't remember those little details that >> he didn't want me to remember. But >> do you understand what I'm saying? Once I knew that it was gone, burned down, I just I just knew that it was probably going to be all right. [clears throat] >> Okay. But what I'm getting at is whether you think about this over the next couple days, I'm telling you it's going to make you feel better to get it off your chest instead of holding it in. I'm just I'm telling you that. >> Yeah. >> Okay. [ __ ] happens. Accidents happen. Okay. If we prove that you're being untruthful, okay, that's where it gets hairy. >> Well, I mean, I was drunk. I don't remember. I didn't There's nothing more to like >> I've been really drunk before, >> right? >> The some things don't aren't as clear as they should have been, I guess. But like I >> I didn't know something was going to happen. So, I didn't know like every detail like >> Think about it over the weekend. >> Yes. >> Okay. Call me. I'll give you my cell phone number. Call me. [snorts] We'll discuss about we'll discuss it further. Obviously, and I don't want you to answer this, okay? I do not want you to answer. Obviously, you have something that you're thinking about. You have something deep inside that's bothered you. >> Going back to jail and getting involved in this trouble again. >> You're you're answering it. I told you not to. All right. I'm just frustrated. >> Am I >> Am I frustrating [clears throat] you? >> The whole scenario. >> Am I frustrating you at all? >> No. But this whole scenario is really frustrating. Yeah, >> I agree. I was on vacation today. I've been working 60 plus hour work weeks for the last 3 4 weeks trying to enjoy a day off and I'm at work again and it's 9:00 on a Friday. Okay. I'm missing time with my family, my kids. Like, [ __ ] happens. It's part of my job. All right. So, it is frustrating, but I'm here to help, too. Like, I don't work in P County. I don't know your guys's relationships with deputies and detectives and whatever. >> Okay? I'm kind [clears throat] of a mutual person right now. I'm here to help you, okay? I'm here to help you move forward. I'm here to help you move on. But I can't help you unless you want to help yourself first. So that's why I say think about it over the weekend. I will give you my card. Call me day or night. All right? If you want to meet up and something comes across or something you want to discuss further and talk about before we do this cell phone extraction and testing of clothes and whatnot next Tuesday, I suggest you call me. Cool. Do you understand what I'm saying? Like if there's things you're holding in you want to discuss, which I there is and I'm not going to go into it. I want you to come to me. One, it shows remorse. Two, it shows that you're trying to follow that path of being on the right track. Okay? And three, it's going to help you feel better. All right? I will come in personally to talk to you. So, think about over the weekend. We're going to do Detective Warner is going to do her consent to search here deal. We'll go grab that stuff up and we'll be out of here. I'll go get my card right now. Give you a card. You can get a hold of me and we can talk and we can set up time to meet here. If you don't call me before then Tuesday. >> Tuesday. Yep. >> We'll get your phone back. Hopefully hopefully you call me before then. >> I have a feeling to call you, but >> I mean I can knock on our neighbor's door if I need to. >> You can knock at your neighbor's door. You can find a friend. You can drive here and use someone's phone. You can drive to the gas station, whatever. There's a million different reasons. >> Mom's phone, whatever. >> Yep. >> I just >> But just know I'm here to help you, too. >> I know. >> Okay. >> I just >> Okay. Well, there's a reason you're feeling that way. Let's discuss it further in the future. >> Ashley Lin Man was originally charged in Pulk County, Wisconsin with felony arson of a building without the owner's consent arising from a December 2024 fire that destroyed a Balsam Lake rental home. She later entered a guilty plea to that count. On February 20th, 2026, Judge Jeffrey Anderson sentenced her to 20 years in prison. Public reporting has not specified a split between initial confinement and extended supervision and Wisconsin generally follows a bifurcated sentence structure rather than traditional parole. As of the most recent verified accounts after that sentencing, she remains incarcerated.