Little Opry Manager Acquitted

James Bowyer was accused of arson and arson with intent to defraud in the destruction of the 2,000-capacity nightclub, which attracted many of country music’s top acts since opening in 1975.

Prosecutors claimed Bowyer and Little Nashville Opry owner Esther Hamilton were heavily in debt from gambling losses and Bowyer set the fire to try and collect $3 million in insurance money.

Bowyer’s attorney, John Boren, said his client wasn’t listed on the venue’s insurance or tax records and wouldn’t have benefited from the destruction.

Bowyer faced up to 20 years in prison if convicted.