Bond Set for Man Accused of Setting Fire to a Wisconsin Rapids Home

Monday, December 29th, 2025 -- 2:00 PM

(Heather Poltrock, WSAW) Bond has been set at $1 million for the man accused of setting fire to a Wisconsin Rapids home in September.

According to Heather Poltrock with wSAW, Michael Vandenbergh of La Farge is charged with three counts of attempted first-degree intentional homicide and arson.

Vandenbergh appeared in Wood County Circuit Court on Friday. Authorities responded to a home on 17th Avenue South around 2 a.m. on Sept. 12. A woman told police she woke up to a loud pop, later determined to be glass breaking, and saw a glow from her porch.

Investigators said surveillance video showed a person near the property before the fire started. Video also showed the quick spread of the fire, which indicated an accelerant had been used.

The outlets and light fixtures on the porch showed nothing to indicate the fire was electrical. Investigators determined the fire was intentionally set. Vandenbergh was arrested later that day in Adams County.

A final investigative report was available Dec. 8 and indicated the fire was intentional. Vandenbergh had a connection to the victims. An adult and two children made it out of the home safely.

A judge has given him until Jan. 2 to obtain an attorney.

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