Former Mebane Firefighter Accused of Setting Home Ablaze with Family Inside

Orange County deputies allege that 40 year old Billy Wayne Smith set his Walker Farm Road home on fire while his family remained inside on November 23. Smith was arrested after authorities say he attempted to ignite plastic items on a stove, turned on the burners and then left the residence. Deputies reported that his actions put family members at risk and that his wife suffered serious facial injuries in an assault.

Smith is charged with first degree arson, two counts of attempted first degree arson, three counts of assault inflicting serious injuries with a minor present, four counts of assault on a female, and five counts of the misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. Officials identified Smith as a Durham Fire Department firefighter, and City of Mebane records show he worked for Mebane Fire from 2012 to 2017.

The allegations have immediate implications for public safety and trust in emergency services. Residents of Alamance County may find it jarring that someone employed to protect the community is accused of placing his own household in danger. Local leaders and emergency employers will face pressure to explain oversight, training and support systems for firefighters who may be experiencing crisis or exhibiting dangerous behavior.

There is also a clear public health and social welfare dimension. Cases that combine domestic violence and attempted arson heighten the need for coordinated responses among law enforcement, health services, and victim support organizations. Families exposed to such trauma require medical care, mental health counseling and stable housing options when a home becomes unsafe. The presence of children in the home elevates concerns about long term psychological and developmental impacts.

For the community, the episode underscores the importance of available resources for domestic violence survivors, and accessible mental health services for first responders and their families. It also prompts policy questions about background checks, reporting mechanisms and proactive interventions when colleagues are in crisis. As authorities continue their investigation, local agencies will need to balance transparency with privacy while connecting affected residents to support services and ensuring public safety.

This story was developed from statements by the Orange County Sheriff s Office and official records from the City of Mebane and the Durham Fire Department.