DEMOPOLIS &8212; A domestic dispute that escalated has landed an area man in court, facing charges of second-degree arson.

Dorian Antonio Murphy, 23, came into court for a preliminary hearing earlier this week after being charged with setting fire to his ex-girlfriend&8217;s apartment on May 1.

The apartment suffered severe smoke and water damage, Williams said.

The incident was investigated by Detective Sgt. Tim Soronen, who testified at the preliminary hearing.

A witness noticed smoke coming from the apartment, and checked on the residence, Williams said. Seeing that no one was home, the witness then called 911.

The fire was one of two incidents involving Murphy and the unidentified victim, Williams said.

Murphy and the woman are no longer in a relationship.

After his arrest, Murphy made bail and is currently free pending the outcome of his legal proceedings.

His case will likely be heard by the next grand jury seated in Marengo County, Williams said.

Second-degree arson is a Class B felony and can carry up to a 10-year prison term if the suspect is convicted.