Iowa, Louisiana - Louisiana State Fire Marshal Chief Bryan J Adams has announced the apprehension of a former part-time firefighter in Iowa, Louisiana who is suspected of setting fire to the main station of the fire department overnight.
18-year-old Jamison Smith has been arrested and taken to the Calcasieu Parish Correctional Center for allegedly committing Simple Arson.
Smoke and flames were noticed at the main station of the Iowa Volunteer Fire Department on Thompson Street in the early hours of Friday, March 15, just before 4 a.m. The station was empty at the time and stored a fire truck and various equipment.
Many volunteers rushed to the scene after hearing that their firehouse was engulfed in flames. Because of the unique situation, Louisiana State Fire Marshal (SFM) deputies were called in to conduct an investigation.
After examining the area and gathering evidence, law enforcement concluded that the fire was deliberately started. They soon pinpointed Smith, a part-time firefighter who had joined the department six months prior and had volunteered there a year before, as a potential suspect in the investigation.
Smith was promptly arrested after a warrant was issued. After being interviewed by deputies, he was officially charged in relation to the case and also suspended from his position in the department.
Louisiana State Fire Marshal Chief Adams stated that despite the unfortunate situation, it should not tarnish the department's reputation or their commitment to serving the community. Louisiana's Fire Service consists of numerous heroes, with the majority being volunteers who willingly give up their time and put their safety at risk to protect their neighborhoods. Families in the state can still have confidence in and depend on these individuals when they need assistance.
The SFM thanked the Iowa Police and Fire Departments for their prompt assistance in resolving this case.
An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.