A Florida man is now being charged with first-degree arson after being seen leaving a fire while coated in ash and soot.#Jacksonville, Florida, #News, #Crime
Jacksonville, Florida According to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, a Florida man was arrested Sunday night after being seen leaving the site of a house fire, clearly covered in ash and soot.
Alongside Jacksonville Fire and Rescue, authorities arrived at the Brooklyn neighborhood fire along Riverside Avenue. Witnesses located 47-year-old William Baker close to the burning property, and he was promptly taken into custody.
Investigators think Baker’s activities may have caused the fire, but it was put out without any injuries being recorded.
Arson Suspect s Behavior Raises Questions
Baker’s unkempt look was noted by a responding deputy as he walked away. Baker was shown being held close to the flames in body-worn camera footage made public by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office on Monday. A deputy can be heard saying, “I know who you are,” on the video. The petrol station was where you were.
Baker was characterized by authorities as a well-known itinerant in the region. According to officials, he had been arrested three times in the preceding four weeks. Baker said at first that he was sleeping close by, but then he added, “I was homeless right here.”
Investigators believe Baker had been squatting on the unoccupied property where the fire happened before it started. Baker allegedly bought fuel just before the fire broke out, according to surveillance footage from a neighboring gas station.
Dogs Found Injured in Fire
Baker’s attention turned to his two dogs, who were with him at the time of the incident, as deputies questioned him. Baker said to a deputy, “I don’t know where Minnie is, but Decoy might be in here.” She may have gotten away.
The sheriff’s office reports that the dogs seemed to have been hurt in the fire. They have not revealed their current state.
Legal Action and Community Response
Baker was charged with first-degree arson and taken to the Duval County Jail. The sheriff s office commended neighbors for their vigilance and quick reporting, stating, We thank the neighbors who called 911 right away. Say something if you see something.
The circumstances surrounding the incident are still being looked into by law police. No further fees have been disclosed.
CONNECTED TOPICS: Florida Crime
Editor s note: Photos used for illustrative purposes only and do not depict the actual subject.
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