On Thursday, July 17, 2026, at approximately 11:02 p.m., the Knoxville Fire Department responded to a report of a fire in a room at the Executive Inn, located at 3400 Chapman Highway. Firefighters acted quickly to contain the blaze to a single room, successfully preventing it from spreading to other parts of the hotel. At the time, multiple residents were inside the building.

	Christopher Adam Ridge

Following a thorough investigation, Knoxville Fire Department Fire Investigators determined that the fire was intentionally set. The incident stemmed from an altercation between a tenant and hotel staff. Subsequently, officers with the Knoxville Police Department located the suspect near World's Fair Park earlier today and detained him without incident.

The suspect, identified as 49-year-old Christopher Adam Ridge, has been charged with Aggravated Arson and Felony Vandalism. He is currently being held at the Roger D. Wilson Detention Facility.

Although the fire caused significant property damage, fire officials express relief that no injuries were reported. Considering the number of occupants present during the event, the risk of serious injury or loss of life was considerable.

The Knoxville Fire Department commends the prompt and effective collaboration between fire investigators and the Knoxville Police Department, which resulted in the swift apprehension and arrest of the suspect.