August 16, 2007 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2007-60) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-2857/Fax: (251) 208-2861 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org FIRE OFFICIALS SERVE WARRANT ON ARSON SUSPECT Mobile Fire-Rescue Investigators served a warrant for the arrest of Joseph Barnes, 24 in connection of a house fire that occurred on June 5, 2007 at 1205 South Drive. Barnes is already in Mobile County Metro Jail charged with assault in connection with stabbing his ex-girlfriend in July of this year. Barnes will be charged with Arson 2nd. The fire was reported at approximately 11:49 p.m. on June 5 causing an estimated $35 thousand in damage. The residence, a one-story, wood frame brick veneer structure was not occupied at the time the fire was set. When firefighters arrived they were advised by the owner, who is Barnes ex-girlfriend, that she had arrived home to find smoke and heat in the rear bedroom. Firefighters entered the structure and encountered light smoke and the rear bedroom door closed and warm to touch. Firefighters opened the door and discovered heavy smoke and a small fire in the bedroom as well as a smoldering fire in the bathroom. Fire Investigators found evidence that indicted the fire may have been purposely set. ###