Portage, IN – A Gary man has been arrested in connection with an arson and murder on Willowdale Court in Portage. Police detained Jesse Chabes, 51, late Wednesday evening for his alleged role in the death of Maria Leal.
According to the Portage Police Department, Detective Trent Howard secured an arrest warrant for Chabes, tying him to the fatal arson that occurred in the early morning hours of Tuesday, September 17. The fire, set at a home in the 3300 block of Willowdale Court, resulted in Leal’s death.
Chabes is being held at Porter County Jail without bond. He faces multiple charges, including murder, murder in perpetration of arson, Level 2 felony arson, and Level 6 felony intimidation.
Authorities have not yet provided further details regarding Chabes’ motives or the relationship between him and Leal. Investigations are ongoing as police gather more evidence.
