Overland Park fire investigators say the flames that consumed a home on Saturday near 165th and Metcalfwas the work of an arsonist.
A Johnson County Sheriff's Deputy saw the smoke and flames early Saturday morning while driving past the home.
A woman who would only identify herself as Lucy moved out of the house on Friday. She says her ex-boyfriend has threatened her life.
"I was suppose to be in that house, but I knew this was coming." said Lucy.
Two weeks ago Lucy petitioned the courts for an order of protection against Glen Edward Hatchel, a man who lived with her and she dated for more than a year.
"He strangled me on the 19th. And I finally got him in jail. His sister bailed him out that day and took him to KCK where she lives. He removed his ankle bracelet and was on foot. It took him a day to get to my house. When I found out he was released, I put my animals in my car and I left town." said Lucy.
The Johnson County district attorney charged Hatchel with aggravated battery and criminal damage to property for the September 19 incident.
Lucy's father packed up her things and moved her out of the house this past Friday. Hours later, around 6:00 a.m. on Saturday smoke and fire were billowing from Lucy's home.
"I got the call that house was burning and they were looking for me. If he would have found me, I'd be dead." said Lucy.
The Overland Park Fire department is still investigating the fire.
Hatchel has not been named a suspect in the fire. But, he is back in jail tonight for a parole violation. He was arrested around 6:30 a.m. on Saturday by Overland Park Police.
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Lisa Benson can be reached at lisa.benson@kshb.com.
