The Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal (SFM) has arrested 37-year-old Justin Ware of Pitkin in connection with a February residential fire that investigators determined was intentionally set as part of an insurance fraud scheme. SFM deputies arrested Ware on July 30, 2026, on two counts of insurance fraud and one count of arson with the intent to defraud. The investigation began after the Plainview Fire Department requested assistance from the SFM Fire Investigations Unit following a house fire in the 400 block of Hopewell Road in Pitkin.

At approximately 3 a.m. on Feb. 24, 2026, the Plainview Fire Department responded to the house fire. Following an extensive investigation that included a scene examination, digital evidence analysis and witness interviews, investigators determined the fire had been intentionally set to support fraudulent insurance claims involving both the residence and a vehicle. The Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office reminds the public that anyone with information regarding fire-related crimes is encouraged to submit an anonymous tip by visiting lasfm.org and selecting the “Arson Fires” icon.