Local

Man faces arson charges after fire displaces adults, children at Cocoa apartments, police say

COCOA, Fla. — One man is facing charges of arson after a fire at an apartment left several people homeless early Thursday morning.

A Brevard County Sheriff's Office resource officer was driving by the complex located off Counts Street when they saw 30-year-old Randy Jones standing outside and watching the fire. Jones was then detained for questioning.

Officials said that as the fire spread, Jones knocked on a neighbor's door to tell her he was responsible for the fire.

A friend of the suspect's late mother believes he needs mental health intervention.

Jones' sister, Lequitta Shorter, told Channel 9 that her brother was diagnosed as a bi-polar schizophrenic.

"He's going to be incompetent until they get him medicated enough to tell him what it is," Shorter said. "I understand he needs to be held accountable and I believe he should be held accountable, but when it comes to help that's not the proper place to give him help."

Shorter also said her brother has been Baker Acted twice this year.

The Red Cross assisted in helping those affected.

No injuries were reported in the fire.

A GoFundMe has been set up for a pair of sisters and their five children who were displaced in the fire.

Jones is being held on near $500,000 bond.

DOWNLOAD: Free WFTV News & Weather Apps

Not near a TV? Click here to watch WFTV newscasts live

Watch Live: Doppler 9 HD