A devastating house fire in Warren, Michigan, has resulted in the tragic deaths of two cats and led to the arrest of the pet owner's ex-boyfriend on charges of arson. Here is a detailed account of the incident based on reports from multiple sources.
#### The Incident
On September 22, a mobile home on Zerita Street in Warren, Michigan, was set on fire, completely destroying the residence and claiming the lives of two cats, Kimchi and Fluffy Cat, who belonged to Lacey Mason.
According to witnesses, a male was seen outside the mobile home yelling and smashing windows before the fire started. "We had received witness reports that there was a male outside yelling and screaming and destroying the windows and trailer, and may or may not have started the fire," stated Warren Police Lt. Scott Isaacson.
Arrest and Charges
The ex-boyfriend, identified as Jesse Dennis Hayden Humphrey, a 29-year-old Canadian man, was arrested in connection with the fire. Humphrey was arraigned on two counts of second-degree arson, which are 20-year felonies, and one count of killing animals in the third degree, a four-year felony.
Humphrey allegedly set the fire following an argument with his ex-girlfriend. Lacey Mason, who had been in a relationship with Humphrey for over a year, was not home at the time of the incident. Her friends had advised her not to return home due to concerns for her safety.
Victim's Account
Lacey Mason expressed her shock and grief over the incident. "I am learning so much stuff that I never really knew who this person was," she told FOX 2. She described the heartbreaking scene of finding her cats: "She just looked like she was sleeping, like she tried to get out. He blocked it so they couldn’t get out of the house.".
Mason also highlighted the extensive support Humphrey had received from her family. "He was very reliant on all of us as a family. We really tried to help this guy, get himself together, and be there for him and treat him as if he were my brother – so it’s very shocking," said Lindsey Mason, Lacey's sister.
Aftermath and Support
The fire resulted in Lacey Mason losing all of her belongings. A GoFundMe campaign has been established by a friend to help her recover from the incident. "I have nothing; everything I cherished is entirely gone," Mason lamented. "I have received some clothes from my sister and friends, but all I have are the clothes I was wearing when I left that night.".
Legal Proceedings
Humphrey was issued a $500,000 bond and must wear a GPS tether if released. He is also prohibited from leaving Michigan or having contact with the victim. He is due back in court on October 8 for a probable cause hearing and a preliminary exam on October 15.
Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido emphasized the severity of the charges: "I am committed to holding those accountable who commit senseless acts of violence and destruction. This individual's alleged actions resulted in the tragic loss of two innocent pets and caused irreparable harm. This act of cruelty and recklessness will not be tolerated."
This incident highlights the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of seeking help. For those experiencing domestic violence, Michigan's Domestic Violence hotline is available 24/7 by calling 1-866-864-2338 or texting 517-898-5533.
