Johnson City Man Charged With Arson In Structure Fire

In this week's report from Troop C of the New York State Police, 29-year-old John Walley from Johnson City was arrested on September 22, 2026, by troopers from the Endwell barracks, following an investigation into an intentionally set residential fire and an altercation with a Trooper during his arrest.

According to the release, around 10:50 p.m. on September 21, 2026, New York State troopers and fire personnel responded to a reported structure fire on Onondaga Street in the town of Union.

The investigation determined that Walley intentionally set fire to the residence. He and the resident, who was not home at the time, know each other.

New York State Police noted that during the investigation, a Trooper observed Walley walking in the area. After a foot pursuit, the trooper attempted to take him into custody, but Walley became physically combative and attempted to remove and aggressively pull at the trooper’s firearm while it was secured in the Trooper’s holster.

Another trooper responded and was able to assist and help gain control of Walley and place him into custody.

John Walley was arrested and charged with arson in the 3^rd degree, assault in the 2^nd degree (with intent to cause injury to a police officer), attempted Robbery in the 2^nd degree, assault in the 3^rd degree, and resisting arrest.

After being treated for minor injuries at Wilson Hospital, Walley was processed and turned over to the Broome County Jail for Centralized Arraignment. The trooper who had initial contact with Walley was treated at Wilson Medical Center and later released.