VILLE PLATTE, La. (KALB) - A Ville Platte man is behind bars after allegedly setting fire to a unit at a senior living apartment complex that houses elderly and disabled residents.

According to the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office, 56-year-old William McBride was arrested and booked with aggravated arson.

Around 9 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 1, the Ville Platte Fire Department responded to the blaze in the 1000 block of North Reed Street. Investigators say smoke alarms alerted residents, who were able to evacuate the building unharmed.

Investigators determined the fire was intentionally set, identified McBride as a suspect, and took him into custody.

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