Jimmy Maxwell Charged With Aggravated Arson For Fire At Erlanger

  • Thursday, March 6, 2014
  • Hollie Webb

A Chattanooga man has been charged with aggravated arson after starting a fire at Erlanger Hospital when he was told he could not smoke cigarettes in his room. 

According to police, Jimmy Maxwell had gone to the emergency room at Erlanger and had been admitted to another room when a nurse spotted him smoking a cigarette. She asked him to put it out. She told police, as he followed her directions, he also took off his shirt, causing a lighter he had hidden to fall to the floor. 

The nurse said she left the room at that point because the cigarette smoke made her sick. Another nurse walked by a short time later after smelling smoke coming from the room. She asked Maxwell what he was burning, but he told her nothing.  

At that time, she asked a police officer to come into the room. It was he who noticed that several ceiling tiles above the bed were smoking and starting to turn black. Within moments, he could also see flames. 

The Erlanger employees were immediately notified and patients were evacuated from nearby rooms.  

When the fire was put out, it was discovered that Maxwell had put his shirt in the ceiling and lit it on fire. 

In addition to aggravated arson, Maxwell has also been charged with reckless endangerment. His bond was set at $100,000.


Breaking News
Lookout Mountain, Ga., Gets Better Return On Investments; Historic Fairyland Arch To Be Cleaned
  • 7/15/2025

The city of Lookout Mountain, Georgia’s investments are more secure since Tommy Gifford consulted with the town officials. Mr. Gifford told the council that several months ago City Manager Kenny ... more

Latest Hamilton County Arrest Report
  • 7/15/2025

Here is the latest Hamilton County arrest report. (If your case is dismissed, just email us your name and date we ran it and we will promptly take off. Email to news@chattanoogan.com ) BARNES,DEARYL ... more

Rep. Howell Says State Relying On Variety Of Approaches For Funding Transportation Needs
Rep. Howell Says State Relying On Variety Of Approaches For Funding Transportation Needs
  • 7/14/2025

State Rep. Dan Howell told members of the Pachyderm Club on Monday that the days have passed when the state could just rely on the gasoline tax for its transportation needs. Rep. Howell, who ... more