HOMESTEAD, FL – A South Florida man is in custody, facing serious charges after allegedly setting fire to his daughter’s home in Homestead. The blaze, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, tragically claimed the life of the family dog, leaving the homeowner, a single mother, devastated.
Authorities have denied bail for the father, who appeared in court earlier today. The homeowner, Joycelyn Perez, a single mother and two months pregnant, expressed her heartbreak over the incident. Perez, who has worked multiple jobs to afford her first home, described the loss as catastrophic. “In just a few minutes, I lost everything I own, including my beloved dog,” she said.
Police reports suggest that the fire was intentionally set. When officers arrived at the scene on 16th Avenue, they found the house engulfed in flames. Thankfully, Perez and her nine-year-old son were not inside at the time, but their dog, Loki, perished in the fire.
Perez, who purchased the home in September 2024, shared her grief over the loss of Loki. “We’ve experienced the worst day of our lives,” she said. “Losing Loki has shattered my heart, soul, and mind into a million pieces.”
The accused father is facing multiple charges, including arson, criminal mischief, and battery on a pregnant woman. Court documents reveal that during the incident, Perez was not present at the home, which may have prevented further tragedy.
The community has rallied around Perez, offering support and assistance during this difficult time. Neighbors have expressed shock and disbelief at the event, with many describing the family as kind and hardworking.
The investigation into the fire continues, as authorities seek to understand the motives behind the alleged arson. Meanwhile, Perez is focused on rebuilding her life and providing for her young family.
The tragic incident has left a mark on the Homestead community, highlighting the unpredictable nature of domestic disputes and the devastating impact they can have on families.