Press Release

CONTACT: David Cheers
(904)-798-5804

JACKSONVILLE- An arrest has been made in connection a fire last week at a westside restaurant.

Walter A. "Tony" Holton, 57, of Jacksonville was arrested Saturday after detectives received a tip following the release of Holton's photo and physical description to local news outlets. A neighbor reported not only where Holton was staying but also the extent of his burn injuries that have him recovering in an area burn unit.

On January 20, 2004, Jacksonville firefighters responded to a fire at Cathy's Restaurant located on North Edgewood Avenue. Damage to the building was estimated at $50,000.

An investigation revealed the fire had been ignited using gasoline, and burnt clothing was found just outside the front door of the business.

"We knew the suspect was probably seriously burned in the fire", said Detective James Little of the Florida State Fire Marshal's Office.

The multi-agency investigation involved the Florida State Fire Marshal's Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, as well as the Jacksonville Fire Department and Sheriff's Office.