Man Accused of Setting Home on Fire

Pinellas County Sheriff's detectives are investigating an unusual chain of events involving a man suspected of firing shots into his home and setting it on fire early Wednesday morning.

Sheriff's Office Spokesperson, Cecilia Barreda says several neighbors reported multiple shots being fired in the area around 4 a.m. Deputies initially responded to the area of Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park Cemetery, then turned their attention to a neighborhood across the street from the cemetery.

Deputies say 24 year-old Desmond Thumbtzen was seen coming out of the garage of a home at 2796 Robinwood Dr. in Clearwater, just south of Palm Harbor. They say he entered and exited the home a couple times and a fire began in the residence.

At one point, when Thumbtzen exited the home unarmed, deputies used a stun gun to subdue him. They then took him into custody. 

Detectives say they found multiple rifles, shotguns and handgun casings in the home. Spent shell casings were also found inside and outside the residence. A large green parrot was found dead inside the house. Two dogs and a cat that were also in the home were unharmed. Investigators say he set multiple fires inside the home.

Thumbtzen was arrested on a charge of unlawful discharge of a firearm. He is now also charged with arson and animal cruelty.

Clearwater Firefighters responded to the fire. Deputies say the home was fully engulfed in flames. The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office Arson and Auto Theft Unit is investigating the blaze.