3/20/25 South Bend, IN – Man Charged With Arson Steals The Deputy’s Chief’s Command Pick Up From The Fire Scene – Arrested

March 20, 2025

www.wsbt.com

Prosecutors charged a 31 year-old South Bend man in connection to a Thursday morning house fire and theft of a fire department vehicle.

Ramon Villalba faces three charges including two for arson and one for auto theft.

The early morning house fire followed by the theft of a South Bend Fire Department battalion chief vehicle are apparently connected.

At approximately 6:45 a.m. Thursday morning, police were advised about a South Bend Fire Department vehicle that had been stolen from the scene of a house fire on Carroll Street.

The house appears to be a total loss as the fire collapsed the walls and the roof.

Another house next door also had significant damage to the side as well as water damage.

According to court documents, Villalba told police he was responsible and had set a couch inside the home on fire.

Court documents also indicate Villable confessed to taking the fire department vehicle.

The stolen vehicle was located on East Calvert Street.

A judge ruled Villalba should stay in custody pending a bond hearing.