$1+ Million Bail Set for Fallon Man Charged with Attempted Murder and Arson

Cory Michael Cone, 34, has been charged with attempted murder and first-degree arson. According to New River Township Justice Court records, a warrant for Cone’s arrest was issued on Nov. 13. The charges include Attempt to Commit Murder, a Category B felony punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison, and First-Degree Arson, a Category B felony punishable by 2 to 15 years.

The criminal complaint alleges that on or about Oct. 3, 2024, in Churchill County, Cone “did willfully and unlawfully, with malice aforethought, deliberately and with premeditation, attempt to kill Robert J. Shivner.” It further alleges that on the same date, Cone “did willfully and maliciously set fire to, burn or cause to be burned, or did aid, counsel, or procure the burning of, a dwelling house or other structure or mobile home, whether occupied or vacant, or personal property which was occupied by one or more persons.” Specifically, the complaint accuses Cone of placing gasoline under Shivner’s home and igniting it, resulting in a fire that engulfed the dwelling.

Cone was booked into the Churchill County Detention Center on Nov. 14 with bail set at $1,050,000. He was arraigned later that day before Justice Court Judge Ben Trotter via Zoom from the jail. The court determined Cone was eligible for a public defender and appointed Churchill County Public Defender Jacob Sommer as representation. 

During the arraignment, Cone waived his right to a preliminary hearing within 15 days. A status hearing was scheduled for Dec. 5, at which time Sommer indicated he would address his client’s custodial status.

The charges against Cone are alleged. All defendants are guaranteed the constitutional right of a presumption of innocence.