LAKELAND, FL – A convicted felon has been apprehended once more, accused of setting ablaze the residence where he lived with five roommates, all of whom were inside at the time. The incident unfolded in the early morning hours of last Thursday at a home on Dawn Heights Drive.
The property, a group home for registered sex offenders, was occupied by six individuals, including 69-year-old Eddie Thomas. Polk County Fire Rescue responded to the emergency shortly before 4 a.m. on May 15. Authorities report that tensions flared when Thomas asked a roommate for a ride into town, a request declined because the roommate wanted to sleep. Angered by the refusal, Thomas allegedly doused flammable liquid in front of each bedroom, trapping his roommates.
Investigators say Thomas then ignited the fire, forcing his roommates to flee through flames or escape through a window. One person suffered serious injuries and was taken to the hospital but is expected to recover.
Sheriff Grady Judd did not mince words when describing Thomas, labeling him “a poster child for someone who doesn’t deserve the air they breathe.” Thomas has a notorious criminal record, including the murder of his estranged wife in 1986, for which he served 17 years. He also has a conviction for sexual battery, resulting in an additional 15-year sentence and his registration as a sex offender.
In this latest incident, Thomas faces five counts of attempted first-degree murder and arson. Sheriff Judd emphasized the purpose of the group homes, noting they were established to house sex offenders who struggle with residency restrictions. He expressed hope that the homeowner has insurance to rebuild the damaged property.