HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – A 25-year-old man accused of setting fire to a mobile home near Plant City, killing four people and multiple dogs, told investigators he only meant to scare his roommates, according to new court documents.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said Shawn Gosset, who was arrested Wednesday, admitted to lighting a paper towel on fire, which ignited other items in the home.
Investigators said Gossett complained his roommates wouldn’t let him go to his father’s house.
Crews responded to the home after midnight Wednesday and saw flames bursting through the roof. Firefighters tried to save three people through a window but were unable to. The fourth victim was found after the fire was knocked out.
“I don’t know whether they were trapped inside, I know they couldn’t get out,” said Joseph Maurer, chief deputy with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
Gosset faces charges of first-degree murder, aggravated animal cruelty and arson.
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