ST. JAMES PARISH — The State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFM), in partnership with the St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office (SJSO), has arrested a Lutcher man for allegedly setting fire to his relative’s home which spread to two additional structures.

Scott Chauvin, 35, has been booked into the St. James Parish Jail on one count each of Aggravated Arson. Additional charges are expected from the St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Around 2 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 16, the St. James Parish Fire Department responded to the 1600 block of Third Street for a report of a house fire. The fire caused extensive damage to the home where the fire was reported as well as moderate damage to an occupied home next door. The elderly resident was able to escape unharmed. A neighboring shed was also destroyed by the spreading fire.

Following an assessment of the scene, which included witness statements and obtaining video evidence, the investigative team determined the fire was intentionally set and identified Chauvin as a suspect in the case. A warrant was then obtained for his arrest.

Together, SFM and SJSO deputies located Chauvin on Wednesday, Aug. 18 and took him into custody.

The SFM would like to thank the St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office for their partnership on this case.