Jacksonville Police Arrest Man in Springfield House Fire Death, Filing Murder, Arson, and Attempted Murder Charges

Arrest follows joint homicide and fire investigation

A 49-year-old man was arrested Sunday, February 22, 2026, after investigators concluded a Springfield house fire in Jacksonville was intentionally set and resulted in one death, authorities said.

The arrest stems from a fire that began just before midnight on Friday, February 20, 2026, at a residence where multiple people were reported to be inside at the time the blaze started. Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office patrol officers responded to assist the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department at the scene, and the fire was later extinguished.

After the flames were put out, investigators discovered the body of a 62-year-old man, Willie Haywood Jr., inside the home, authorities said.

Charges include murder, arson, and eight counts of attempted murder

Police identified the suspect as Julius Lindo. Authorities said Lindo was arrested on one count of murder and one count of arson. In addition, Lindo faces eight counts of attempted murder, with each count corresponding to one person who was inside the home when the fire began.

Investigators said they determined the fire was intentionally set following interviews with multiple witnesses and through a joint investigation led by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit and the State Fire Marshal’s Office.

• Fire reported just before midnight Friday, February 20, 2026
• Victim identified as Willie Haywood Jr., 62
• Suspect arrested Sunday, February 22, 2026
• Charges: murder, arson, and eight counts of attempted murder

What authorities have and have not disclosed

Authorities said Lindo was located Sunday and taken into custody for an interview. Following that interview, investigators placed him under arrest.

Police have not publicly detailed the suspected ignition method, a potential motive, or the nature of any relationship between the suspect and the occupants of the home. Officials also have not released information indicating whether any of the eight other people inside the house suffered injuries, beyond the reported fatality.

The case is being handled as both a homicide and arson investigation, with the Sheriff’s Office and the State Fire Marshal’s Office participating, authorities said.

Next procedural steps

The case is expected to proceed through first appearances and subsequent court hearings where a judge will address issues including detention status, bond, and the formal filing of charges. As with all criminal cases, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Investigators have indicated the inquiry remains active as they continue to document the circumstances of the fire and the events leading up to it.