Suffolk fire investigators are looking into the possibility that a March 15 fire was set intentionally by the homeowner, according to a search warrant filed in Suffolk Circuit Court.

James Arthur Davis Jr., 40, remains in serious condition at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. Emergency crews responded to his house at 632 Battery Ave. on March 15 about 9:30 a.m. when several passersby called 911 about the fire.

Two engines and a ladder truck brought the fire under control quickly.

While investigating the fire, staff from the Suffolk Fire Marshal’s office asked Davis if he knew where the fire started, and he replied it originated in the front room.

“Upon questioning Mr. Davis if he knew how the fire started, he admitted he set the fire with matches,” says a statement filed with the search warrant.

When investigators searched the home’s remains, they found only a white cigarette lighter on the utility room floor, according to the warrant.