Spring Hill man threatens to burn down ex’s house, gas and firearm found in his possession: HCSO

SPRING HILL, Fla. (CBS12) — A Spring Hill man armed with a cache of firearms allegedly threatened to burn down the home he shared with his ex-girlfriend after their breakup.

The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) said that on October 23 at approximately 3 a.m., a woman called 911 to report threats from her 48-year-old ex-boyfriend, Jack French.

The women told officials that French was upset about their recent breakup, called her and threatened to burn down the home they shared on Riddle Drive in Spring Hill. She also mentioned that he sent her photos of gasoline cans.

According to HCSO, deputies arrived on scene and found French, a convicted felon, loading a firearm into his vehicle in front of the home.

When deputies approached him, he allegedly responded by recovering a rifle and other firearms and retreating into the house.

The report shows that MPs maintained contact with French via telephone. He made several statements about his mental state, including suicidal remarks.

At one point, deputies reported hearing a gunshot from inside the home, but French later clarified that the gunshot was accidental and occurred as he was opening the door.

HCSO noted that at 8 a.m. French left the home and was arrested.

In an interview with officials, French stated he was upset about the breakup and then told them he had poured gasoline on the floor of the home.

A search of the home by deputies revealed a five-gallon tank of gasoline, eleven firearms and more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition.

French was charged with possession of a firearm by a felon and attempted arson.

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