Updated August 8, 2019 11:03 a.m.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County District Judge Tim Chambers will now schedule an evidentiary hearing for a 54-year-old man facing a charge of aggravated arson. The hearing will center on whether Edward Love is competent to stand trial.

During a brief hearing Thursday, the defense indicated that they may want to bring an expert witness to testify over any mental issues the defendant may have.

The arson charge was filed officials determined that a fire in his room at the Sunflower Motel in Hutchinson was intentionally set. This was back on May 23.

There were 14 other occupants of the motel at the time he set the fire.

Family members in an earlier hearing noted that he has suffered a mental issues in the past.

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Original story

HUTCHINSON — Reno County District Judge Tim Chambers has scheduled a competency hearing for a 54-year-old man facing a charge of aggravated arson. The hearing will center on whether Edward Love is competent to stand trial.

The arson charge was filed by the state May 23 after an investigation determined that a fire in his room at the Sunflower Motel in Hutchinson was intentionally set.

The charge alleges Love used a cigar to start the room phone on fire. When firefighters responded to the scene, Love said he put the fire out and opened the window to let the smoke out.

There were 14 other occupants of the motel at the time he set the fire.

The competency hearing is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Thursday in Reno County District Court.

Love has prior convictions from Lyon County for criminal damage to property.