The Cooper Volunteer Fire Department and the Delta County Sheriff’s Office recently responded to a fire at SW 8th Street in Cooper.
Upon arrival, the mobile home was engulfed in flames, but the residents of the home fortunately made it out safely.
After extinguishing the fire and officials began investigating the incident suspicious burn patterns were discovered and bottles’ containing what was believed to be fire accelerants.
The State Fire Marshall’s office was contacted and a follow-up investigation was conducted by State Fire Marshall Ed Cheever, Delta County Chief Deputy Donnie Willingham, Investigator Ryan Brown and Deputy Jacob Watkins.
The investigation revealed that the owner of the residence, Jerry Lacouture, intentionally started the fire and was assisted by fellow Cooper resident, Brent Austin Williams.
Charges have been filed for Arson of a Habitation on both suspects.