Man Set Fire That Killed 4 People, 3 Dogs: Hillsborough Sheriff

PLANT CITY, FL — A man intentionally set a fire at a Plant City home that killed four people and three dogs early Wednesday morning, according to a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office news release.

Shawn Gossett, 25, was charged with four counts of murder in the first degree while engaged in arson, three counts of aggravated cruelty to animals and one count of arson of a dwelling.

Deputies responded to the fire on South County Line Road just after midnight. The bodies were discovered while Hillsborough County Fire Rescue extinguished the fire, the sheriff’s office said.

Investigators learned that Gossett, who lived at the home, started the fire with the intent of burning down the house.

"This is an utterly senseless and horrific crime where four innocent lives were tragically taken due to the evil actions of this man," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "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."

HCSO is working with the Medical Examiner's Office and HCFR to identify the victims.