A woman living in the other bedroom of the apartment told investigators she awoke to a popping sound and saw a light haze early that morning. She assumed at first the smoke was from cooking fried chicken that evening and went back to sleep, according to court documents.

Her dog woke her about five minutes later. She told authorities she heard more popping sounds, went to investigate and saw fire coming from the refrigerator. The woman woke her husband and children, and then banged on Oliver's door. She and the children escaped through a window. Her husband went out the front door after unsuccessfully trying to reach a fire extinguisher.

At the scene, Oliver told investigators he also tried to reach the fire extinguisher, but was unable to because of the fire. He exited the apartment through a window.

Authorities say Oliver initially denied any involvement, but after taking a polygraph test, admitted to starting the fire in the refrigerator. He told investigators his girlfriend was giving all of her attention to her children and new friends. He wanted her to pay more attention to him.