Man Charged with Arson and Aggravated Assault in Powder Springs Fire

POWDER SPRINGS, GA – Authorities have arrested 41-year-old Paul Ryan Dodd in connection with a structure fire at 4934 Hiram Lithia Springs Road. Dodd faces charges of Arson in the First Degree and Aggravated Assault, both felonies.

The fire occurred in the early morning hours of Friday, November 14, 2025, at approximately 3:26 a.m. When Cobb County Fire and Emergency Services (CCFES) arrived, they found a storage building being used as a dwelling fully involved in flames. Fortunately, the occupant was able to safely escape.

Investigators from the Cobb County Fire Investigations Unit and Cobb County Police Major Crimes Unit determined the front door as the area of origin, which was the only means of egress for the occupant. Witnesses on scene provided law enforcement with both a vehicle description and the suspect’s name, leading to the arrest of Dodd.

Dodd is currently in custody pending further proceedings. Authorities are asking anyone with additional information related to this incident or other fires to contact Investigator Lee Maness at 770-499-3889 or via email at lee.maness@cobbcounty.gov.