A juvenile has been arrested for allegedly starting an arson fire at Jungle Exotic Pets in Florence on September 24. Their name and age remain undisclosed, and they are in custody at the Rankin County Sheriff’s Office Juvenile Detention Center. The fire broke out shortly after midnight and caused significant smoke and water damage, particularly to the store’s storage area.
Fortunately, while the fire resulted in one fish’s death due to firefighting debris, all other animals—including mammals, reptiles, and arachnids—survived. The store, which claims to be the largest pet store in Mississippi, plans to undergo remodeling before reopening, although a specific date has not been set. The investigation into the incident is still ongoing.
