Austin Man Allegedly Burned Properties He Tried To Buy

A prominent Austin businessman’s several failed attempts to buy a property ended in flames, according to authorities.

Dorsey Bryan Hardeman, 75, the founder of Continental Automotive Group and a real estate investor, has been arrested on two counts of first degree arson and one count of second degree arson, the Austin Business Journal reported.

The charges, confirmed by the Travis County Sheriff’s Office, date back to Dec. 25, when Hardeman allegedly set multiple fires in the 500 block of Pampa Drive, a property that he was “attempting to purchase.” Video surveillance obtained by the insurance company showed Hardeman setting the blaze, investigators said.

In addition, Hardeman faces charges related to fires that occurred on Feb. 17 and Feb. 20 at 4811 South Congress Avenue, which is owned by his real estate holding company, 4811 SoCo LP.

The latest arrest marks the second time Hardeman has been detained in recent months. On Feb. 29, he was arrested on charges of felony arson and a state felony offense of burglary for allegedly setting fire to a Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop in downtown Austin. Hardeman also tried to purchase the bike shop, at 400 Nueces Street, which is adjacent to a property that he owns, the outlet reports.

Hardeman has remained silent on the matter. However, his attorney, Sam Bassett of Minton Bassett Flores & Carsey PC, has issued the following statement:

“We have had no access to the investigation facts or findings at this time, so it would be premature for us to comment. We are hopeful to get access to the State’s file to begin working on Mr. Hardeman’s case as soon as we are permitted to get the information from the District Attorney.”

Continental Automotive amassed $756 million in revenue in 2021, the outlet reported. Two of Hardeman’s children, Genny Hardeman and Will Hardeman, oversee the company’s day-to-day operations, although he’s still involved as an advisor.

—Quinn Donoghue