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Brian Scott Walker, 42, of Hamblen County set fire to a home in the early hours of Aug. 2 after forcing his way into the house with a chainsaw, threatening the people inside.

The residence belonged to and was occupied by Walker’s sister Misty Snyder, brother-in-law Preston Snyder and the couple’s 13-year-old son.

Walker initially tried forcing his way into the home by sawing through the front door with a chainsaw, and upon being unsuccessful, set the home ablaze.

Walker waited outside with the chainsaw as he watched the house burn.

“The Snyders and their son were able to escape through a basement door, but when they tried to leave, they discovered the tires on their vehicles had been slashed,” Detective David Stapleton with the Hamblen County Sheriff’s Office said.

“Although they survived the blaze, sadly their home was a total loss.”

Walker was arrested and jailed, charged with not only one but three counts of attempted first degree murder, aggravated arson, as well as three counts of aggravated assault and aggravated kidnapping.

“We’re all thankful that this didn’t turn out the way Walker planned,” Sheriff Chad Mullins said. “I’m proud of the quick actions of the HCSO Deputies and appreciative of the assistance we received from the Morristown Police Department in locating Walker before he was able to cause more harm.”

Walker was denied bond and is currently awaiting trial.