A Hernando County man faces arson charges after a Spring Hill home was engulfed in flames, leading to a total loss of the property, Hernando County Fire Rescue reported. The blaze broke out shortly before 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, when firefighters were dispatched to the 300 block of Peach Tree Drive, according to a report from FOX 13 News.
The situation was worsened by a nearby brush fire amid dry conditions and a burn ban in Hernando and surrounding counties. Fire officials said an individual nearby acted erratically, hindering efforts to verify whether the house was vacant.
As detailed by WFLA, assistance was requested from Pasco County Fire Rescue to manage the spreading brush fire, with both the house and brush fires being brought under control within approximately 45 minutes. Investigators ultimately determined that the fire had been deliberately started, and subsequently, a suspect was placed under arrest.
Edwin Quintana-Ortiz, aged 57, has been charged with first-degree arson, resisting an officer with violence, and obstruction of police, as detailed by WTSP. No injuries have been reported in connection with the fire, however, the home itself was declared a total loss. The State Fire Marshal’s Office and Hernando County Sheriff's Office are continuing the investigation into the incident.
Authorities have not yet disclosed how the fire started or any possible motives. Edwin Quintana-Ortiz awaits his day in court to face the charges.
