A Florida man has been arrested after firemen discovered four people and three dogs dead in a home he set on fire, according to authorities.
Hillsborough County Fire Rescue received a call just after midnight Wednesday from a homeowner reporting smoke and flames inside the home, with three people and five dogs inside. Crews arrived at the prefabricated home near Plant City about eight minutes later and discovered a working fire in a residence about 100 yards from the main road, according to the agency. Firefighters entered the house and extracted three occupants via a bedroom window. However, all three were declared deceased.
Within approximately 20 minutes, firefighters doused the flames. They walked inside to discover a fourth victim and three pets had died. According to detectives from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, 25-year-old Shawn Gossett, who lived in the home, purposely set fire to it.
Authorities are currently investigating the motive for the killings and the causes of death of the victims, who have not been publicly identified.
“This is an utterly senseless and horrific crime where four innocent lives were tragically taken due to the evil actions of this man,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement. “I want to commend our detectives and our partners at Hillsborough County Fire Rescue for their swift actions which resulted in the arrest of this individual and their relentless efforts to ensure justice is served.”
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Gossett is charged with four counts of first-degree murder while committing arson, three counts of severe animal mistreatment, and one crime of arson of a dwelling. He is currently being held without bond at the Hillsborough County Jail.
Neighbor Shaun Martinez told Tampa’s NBC affiliate WFLA that he was close to the victims. He had just been over to the house earlier this week, assisting them with car repairs.
“They were just enjoyable to spend out with; they would make you laugh and joke around. He added, “The mother was also nice and everything.”