BROOKSVILLE, Fla. – What began as an arson case in 1998 turned into a homicide investigation when a man burned in the fire died after being transported to the hospital.
On Monday, January 26, 1998, Jessie Johnson, 69, sustained severe injuries from a fire intentionally set to his residence on Josephine St., in South Brooksville, Florida.
Jessie died several days later due to complications associated with the injuries from the fire.
“We don’t have much to go on right now,” said a Hernando County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson in 1998. “We’re hoping someone will come forward.”
In the news: 1978 Florida Cold Case: James Hendrickson, Stabbed To Death In Clearwater
No one has.
According to investigators, on the evening of the fire, witnesses observed two subjects in front of Jessie’s residence minutes before the fire started.
It has been 25 years since this investigation first began, and the Sheriff’s Office is actively pursuing the case.
With some cold cases, information is scarce, and people have stopped looking for answers. Detectives haven’t and need tips.
In 1998, technology such as social media and smartphones didn’t exist, and information was difficult to share. Someone knows who set fire to Jesse Johnsons’ home.
Please share this with your networks, and if you have any information in this case, you are urged to contact Det. Goerge Loydgren of the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office: (352) 754-6830.
Anonymous tips can be made by calling 1-866-990-8477 or online – Submit a tip here
Android Users, Click To Download The Free Press App And Never Miss A Story. Follow Us On Facebook and Twitter. Signup for our free newsletter.
We can’t do this without your help; visit our GiveSendGo page and donate any dollar amount; every penny helps.