Officers with the DeFuniak Springs Police responded to a residential fire on Saturday morning, January 11, 2014. Officers arrived at 1542 Walton Road at approximately 9:30 AM to find smoke and some items within the residence to still be smoldering. The DeFuniak Springs Fire Department responded to extinguish the fire and ensure no one was injured.
A preliminary investigation revealed that forced entry (door kicked in) had been made into the home. Thankfully, no one was inside the residence at the time. Articles and furnishings within the home were blackened with soot and evidence showed the damage to be deliberate. It was also discovered that the suspect(s) stole a shotgun, but did not remove other valuables before setting fire within the residence.
An investigator with the State Fire Marshal’s Office responded to assist Officers in the investigation. A person of interest was identified and the shotgun was recovered. The case is still under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Austin at 850-892-8513 or by calling the TIPS Line at 850-910-8477.