OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Ocala Police have arrested a 20-year-old Dunnellon man in relation to a suspicious house fire that occurred at 2029 SW 4th St. in Ocala on July 3.
OPD arrested Joseph Jomall Antonio Hester on July 8, 2026, after detectives determined the fire was intentionally set. The investigation collected evidence, including “witness accounts, surveillance video, and threatening text messages sent to the homeowner” that implicated Hester in the arson, according to an OPD announcement.
Hester had also reportedly been involved in several prior disturbances, including incidents of property damage, at the property, which belonged to his grandfather.
Hester faces a ch
“OPD commends the teamwork between investigators, fire personnel, and community members in bringing this case to a close,” read the announcement.