What is the definition of arson?

Arson is defined as the willful and malicious burning of property for an illegal purpose. This definition emphasizes the intentional nature of the act, distinguishing it from accidental fires or those caused by natural events. In arson, the perpetrator deliberately engages in the act of setting fire with the intent to damage or destroy property, often for personal gain, such as profit from insurance claims. This motivation underlines the criminal aspect of arson, as it typically involves an unlawful objective.

In contrast, the other definitions refer to scenarios that do not involve the illicit intent necessary to categorize an act as arson. Accidental burning involves no intent to harm or damage, while natural fire does not involve human intervention. The intentional denial of insurance claims relates more to fraud than to arson itself, as it does not necessarily involve the act of burning property. Therefore, the focus on willfulness and malice in the definition captures the essential elements of arson as a criminal offense.