A troubled 25-year-old man intentionally started a Central Florida house fire, resulting in the deaths of four people and four dogs.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrested and charged 25-year-old Shawn Gossett with murder.
On July 31st at 12:08am, HCSO received a call about a potential fire on South County Line Road in Plant City near Tampa. While Hillsborough County Fire Rescue was extinguishing the house fire, they discovered four deceased adults inside.
Through investigative means, detectives learned Shawn Gossett, a resident of the home, started the fire with the intent to burn the house down. He reportedly did not want to live there any longer.
Based on the investigation, detectives arrested and charged Gossett for Murder in the First Degree While Engaged in Arson, Aggravated Cruelty to Animals, and Arson of a Dwelling.
“This is an utterly senseless and horrific crime where four innocent lives were tragically taken due to the evil actions of this man,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “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.”
At the time immediately after the fire, HCSO was working in collaboration with the Medical Examiner’s Office and Hillsborough County Fire Rescue on positively identifying the victims.
This is an active investigation, according to local law enforcement.
