State Fire Marshal (SFM) deputies have arrested an Oakdale man accused of making homemade explosive devices and setting fire to a house while four of his relatives, including children, were inside.

Craig Paul, 49, was booked on April 8 for two counts of Manufacture and Possession of a Delayed Action Incendiary Device and one count of Aggravated Arson.

 

In the evening hours of April 6, the Oakdale Police Department requested the SFM to assist them with investigating a house fire where suspicious objects were discovered on the scene. At the time of the fire, the home was occupied by two women and two children. The damage was limited to a tarp located on the exterior of the home.

After an assessment of the scene, including witness statements and evidence collection, deputies determined the suspicious objects were homemade explosive devices and that Paul was a person of interest in the case.

 

Following being taken in for questioning, Paul admitted to making the devices and to setting the tarp on fire. Paul attributed the use of illegal narcotics and struggles with mental illness as reasons for his actions.

Arrest warrants were then obtained for Paul and he was booked in connection with the case.

 

The SFM would like to thank the Oakdale Police Department and Louisiana State Police for their partnership in this investigation.