Arson suspect faces judge for the first time

Woman accused of sparking fire at Yuma's 5th Ave Motel - residents still displaced

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Friday afternoon, 39-year-old Jamie Tennyson was charged with one count of arson for allegedly setting a fire at the 5th Avenue Motel in Yuma.

The fire broke out just after seven Wednesday morning. Firefighters say it started with a car in the parking lot, then spread to the building. The blaze left as many as 15 people without a home.

Related: Woman arrested in connection with suspected arson fire at Yuma motel

Gary Tennyson, the suspect's husband, says he was sleeping when the fire broke out. It was his wife's ex-husband who woke him up and told him it was Jamie's car that was on fire.

Gary say's Jamie was no where to be found as he did his best to put out the fire.

Now he is collecting donations to help those who have been displaced, including himself.

He says no one has been allowed to go back to the motel for their things.

You can contact Gary Tennyson at 928-294-8060 for more information on how to donate.