Who was charged in the Piqua home fire and explosion?

Brian Markin, the homeowner, was charged with aggravated arson.

When did the Piqua Covington Avenue house explosion occur?

The explosion and fire occurred on November 18, 2025.

Who rescued Brian Markin from the Piqua house fire?

A good Samaritan named Julie Battle, also known as Cris Deleon, rescued Markin.

Home / Crime and Justice / Piqua Man Charged in Fiery Home Explosion

Piqua Man Charged in Fiery Home Explosion

18 Jan

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Summary

Homeowner Brian Markin faces aggravated arson charges.
The incident occurred November 18, 2025, on Covington Avenue.
A good Samaritan rescued Markin from the burning home.

Piqua Man Charged in Fiery Home Explosion

Brian Markin, a homeowner in Piqua, has been indicted on two counts of aggravated arson. The charges are related to a significant house explosion and fire that occurred on November 18, 2025, in the 1100 block of Covington Avenue. Court documents filed on January 7, 2026, allege that Markin knowingly created a substantial risk of serious physical harm through fire or explosion and knowingly damaged an occupied structure.

During the incident, Markin was rescued from the burning residence by a bystander, identified as Julie Battle, also known as Cris Deleon. Markin was transported to Miami Valley Hospital in critical condition but has since been released and is recovering in a nursing home. Deleon stated that he feels good about saving a life, regardless of the subsequent charges.