Fargo man who called himself “God” and lit hat on fire near propane tanks is arrested

FARGO, N.D. (Valley News Live) - Fargo Police were called out to the Holiday Gas Station at 101 University Drive North on Thursday, April 24, for a man who appeared to be intoxicated.

According to court documents, officers were able to identify the man as Marshall Watson, based on previous booking photos. They say he was standing about five to six feet away from propane tank and had a hat on fire in front of him.

Court documents say Watson stated his name was “God” and had the fire going to deal with “dangerous spiritual stuff.”

A Fargo Police officer followed Watson into the gas station and then asked people if they knew who Watson was or were aware of his condition.

Court documents state that Watson left the gas station and continued walking on University Drive North. Additional officers were called to help detain Watson for a mental health evaluation, as well as for the possibility that Watson could possibly fight officers.

As additional officers arrived on scene, Watson brought his hands up indicating he was ready to fight officers and then ran away. Court documents say, one of the officers drew his taser as an effort to avoid being hit by Watson and shot his taser at Watson’s back in an effort to reduce the risk of Watson running out into traffic.

Court documents say that after a brief chase, officers were able to place Watson under arrest after he lost his balance in the middle of the road on in the 50 block of University Drive North.

Watson is facing charges of preventing arrest, endangering by fire or explosion, and refusal to halt.

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