Surveillance Video Captures Arsonist Targeting West Allis Home; Homeowner Unscathed

West Allis, Wisconsin – Police are searching for a suspect after a home near 60th Street and Lincoln Avenue was set on fire early Sunday morning, with the entire incident captured on residential surveillance cameras.

The homeowner, Kaleigh Werra, told reporters that she slept through the attack. She has since reviewed footage showing a man pouring an unknown accelerant against the side of her residence.

“He lights it on fire. Almost lights himself on fire, and then he takes off running,” Werra said, describing the video. “It was just shocking. I don’t really understand why someone would do that.”

According to authorities, a neighbor driving past the property spotted the flames and stopped to call 911. The responding firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze, though significant damage remains—including a melted window well.

“I just want to thank the neighbor that drove past and saw the fire and stopped,” Werra added. “He could have just kept going to work. He made the choice to stop and call the police.”

The surveillance footage also shows that same neighbor banging on Werra’s door while on the phone with emergency dispatchers. Police officers and firefighters arrived shortly thereafter.

Werra, who recently moved back to the area after living out of state for 20 years, does not believe the attack was personal. “I don’t think it was directed towards me personally. I don’t know anybody in the city. I don’t know much in the state,” she said.

She is now appealing to the public to identify the suspect, who was captured on camera wearing a hoodie and a Brewers bucket hat.

“I don’t want him to do it to anybody else,” Werra said. “He clearly has the capability of doing something that violent. So I just wish somebody would recognize them and provide some information so we can get them over to the police.”

West Allis police confirmed that no one is currently in custody. Investigators are asking anyone who recognizes the man in the video to come forward.

“Use this incident as a reminder to stay alert, informed and safe in your surroundings and community. If you have any information about the incident in this article – report it immediately to local law enforcement. Your tip could be the missing piece or make a huge difference.”