Camilla Jessen
Here’s the details.
Authorities in Escambia County, Florida, say investigators found two children dead after a fire at a trailer in the Grand Oak Mobile Home Park on Friday, Nov. 7.
The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office said evidence indicates both children were killed before the blaze was set and that one child had been sexually assaulted.
The children have identified by local media as 9‑year‑old Vayden Orum and 7‑year‑old Rayden Smith, as reported by People.
Sheriff Chip Simmons told the public the incident is “heartbreaking and senseless,” urging parents to “please hug your children.”
27-year old arrested
According to authorities, the suspect, 27‑year‑old John Henry Walston Jr., has been arrested and is being held without bond on multiple charges including two counts of premeditated murder, sexual assault on a victim under 12 and arson.
Local reports say the children had been staying at the trailer that belonged to Walston, whom one relative said he had known for years.
When the fire took hold, the children’s mother reportedly ran back into the burning home trying to rescue them and was later treated at a hospital for severe burns; she remains hospitalized.
A neighbor told local media the mother was pulled from the trailer after attempting to save the children. Officials also reported a dog found dead inside the residence.
Walston was reportedly one of two adults treated at hospitals after the blaze.
His first court appearance is scheduled for Nov. 26, according to jail records and the sheriff’s office. Authorities continue to investigate and have asked anyone with information to contact the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office.
This article is made and published by Camilla Jessen, who may have used AI in the preparation
