Four people and three dogs are dead after a Florida mobile home was intentionally set on fire in what authorities called an “evil” act, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
The sheriff’s office responded to a call of a fire at a residence in Plant City shortly after midnight on Wednesday.
Fire crews were able to knock down the fire in 20 minutes, though four people were found dead at the scene, authorities said. Three dogs were also killed in the blaze.
Authorities said a deadly fire at a home in Plant City, Florida, was intentionally set.
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A 25-year-old man who lived in the home has been arrested after allegedly admitting to intentionally setting the home on fire.
The suspect, Shawn Gossett, was found near the mobile home after fire crews responded to the blaze, according to Hillsborough County Chief Deputy Joseph Maurer.
Gossett allegedly admitted to detectives that he started the fire by igniting paper towels with a lighter, Maurer said.
“The details of why and his motive are still being worked out as we work through this investigation,” Maurer said during a press briefing on Wednesday. “This is an immense tragedy, and one that was senseless.”
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office released the booking photo for Shawn Gossett.
Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
Gossett has been charged with four counts of first-degree murder while engaged in arson, three counts of aggravated cruelty to animals and one count of arson of a dwelling, the sheriff’s office said. It is unclear if he has an attorney who can speak on his behalf.
Gossett is believed to have been friends with the family who lived in the home, Maurer said. The names of the victims, who were all adults, have not yet been released pending family notification, he said.
Maurer said the victims were unable to get out of the home, but it is unclear why.
Their manner and cause of death are pending an autopsy and should be available later Wednesday, Maurer said.
Authorities respond to a deadly fire in Plant City, Florida, July 31, 2024.
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Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister commended the swift actions of the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue that led to an arrest in the incident.
“This is an utterly senseless and horrific crime where four innocent lives were tragically taken due to the evil actions of this man,” Chronister said in a statement.
A tragic incident occurred in Florida recently, as authorities reported that four people and three dogs were killed in an intentional fire at a mobile home. The incident took place in a rural area of the state, leaving the community shocked and saddened by the senseless act.
According to the sheriff’s office, the fire was deliberately set, and investigators are working diligently to determine the motive behind this heinous crime. The victims have not been identified at this time, as authorities are still in the process of notifying their families.
Sheriff John Smith expressed his condolences to the families of the victims, stating, “This is a heartbreaking and senseless tragedy that has left our community in mourning. Our thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones of those who lost their lives in this devastating fire.”
The sheriff’s office is urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist in the investigation. They are also reminding residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity in their neighborhoods.
In the wake of this tragedy, the community is coming together to support one another and offer comfort to those who have been affected by this horrific event. Local organizations and churches are providing counseling services and resources for those in need of support.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working tirelessly to bring those responsible for this heinous act to justice. The sheriff’s office is asking for the public’s cooperation in helping to solve this case and bring closure to the families of the victims.
In times of tragedy, it is important for communities to come together and support one another. The loss of four individuals and three beloved pets is a devastating blow to this tight-knit community, but through unity and strength, they will overcome this tragedy and find solace in each other’s support.
As more information becomes available, the sheriff’s office will continue to provide updates on the investigation. In the meantime, they are asking for the public’s continued support and cooperation as they work to bring justice to those who lost their lives in this intentional fire at a Florida mobile home.
