Convicted Felon Arrested for Attempted Murder After Lakeland Fire

Dawn Heights Drive, Lakeland, Central Florida, USA - In a shocking turn of events, a house fire in Lakeland, Central Florida has resulted in the arrest of 69-year-old Eddie Thomas, a convicted felon and registered sex offender. Thomas was taken into custody for attempted murder after the blaze, which left two residents severely injured. According to West Orlando News, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office responded to the emergency call on Dawn Heights Drive, where residents reported a terrifying escape from the flames.

It all started when Thomas requested a ride and jumper cables from another resident, who declined. Allegedly angered by this refusal, he is thought to have set the fire. One victim, who has limited mobility, suffered serious burns while trying to escape and required hospitalization for treatment. Another managed to flee through a bedroom window when unable to access the front door due to the raging fire. Eyewitness accounts describe terrifying scenes, with one person recalling, “I saw him walking around the house before the fire started.”

The Evidence Mounts

State Fire Marshal investigators discovered clear signs of foul play, identifying six accelerant alert points and two pour patterns in the rubble of what was once a home. Witnesses reported a strong smell of gasoline and noted that the floors were wet and slippery from what appeared to be fuel. Two victims reportedly observed Thomas fleeing the scene in his red Chevrolet truck, which adds another layer of evidence against him.

Until this incident, Thomas had been living in the house since 2023 without any notable problems. However, tensions reportedly escalated recently, culminating in disputes and an eviction notice due to unpaid rent. This unfortunate situation not only resulted in the destruction of property, which has now been declared a total loss, but also left residents traumatized.

A Troubling Background

Eddie Thomas’s past speaks volumes about the dangers he poses to the community. With a criminal history that includes a 17-year prison sentence for second-degree murder in 1986, his track record raises serious concerns. The Polk County authorities have not taken this arrest lightly; Thomas now faces five counts of attempted first-degree murder and first-degree arson.

This incident is a stark reminder of the broader issue of violent crime awareness and prevention. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s data compiled in the Uniform Crime Reports, arson has been one of the serious crimes tracked since 1979. It includes intentional acts of setting fires with various motives, and while this specific case is extreme, it reflects ongoing challenges faced by communities in Florida and beyond. Arson is classified within a range of violent crimes, which also includes murder and aggravated assault—factors that the community should not take lightly.

Moreover, incidents like this ignite discussions about public safety and the need for vigilant community engagement. As seen with the rapid response from local law enforcement and fire investigation teams, swift action can potentially save lives. Residents are encouraged to remain alert and report any suspicious activity in their neighborhoods.

As the investigation continues and Thomas awaits his day in court, the Lakeland community is left to grapple with the aftermath of this shocking event. It’s a reminder that vigilance at home, community readiness, and strict enforcement of laws can contribute to keeping our neighborhoods safe from individuals who may pose a threat.