Published: November 17, 2008 02:25 pm         

UPDATE: ARSON ALLEGED IN FIRE AT GREAT-GRANDPARENTS’ HOME

Fire started to hide theft of firearms, say police

A Live Oak man was arrested on charges of first-degree arson Wednesday for a February fire at the home of his great-grandparents. Jeremiah Underwood, 21, of 10910 96th Trail, was arrested and booked into the Suwannee County Jail, where he remained as of Friday morning.

According to reports from the sheriff’s office and the state fire marshal, Underwood, then living with his great-grandparents, stole three firearms from a gun cabinet in his great-grandfather’s bedroom on Feb. 15 and pawned them. Later that day he allegedly set fire to the home to hide the theft of the guns and of $27.50 in quarters. State reports indicate that two fires were set in the home, one in Underwood's bedroom and one in his great-grandfather's bedroom.

The home was 75 percent damaged, according to reports from Suwannee County Fire/Rescue. The home was uninsured as well, said authorities.

Underwood was arrested on March 4 and charged with grand theft and dealing in stolen property.

The stolen firearms included a .410 shotgun, a 20-gauge shotgun and a .22 rifle with a scope, say reports.

     

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