Crime of the week
By John Joyce
Published in News on December 23, 2015 1:46 PM
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Donnie Cox Jr.
The Goldsboro Police Department is seeking the public's help in locating a homeless man from Goldsboro in connection with a suspicious fire set Friday.
The fire has since been declared a case of arson.
According to a press release, the Goldsboro Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 307 W. Grantham St., Friday morning at approximately 8 a.m. After putting out the fire and conducting a preliminary investigation, fire department officials requested the assistance of the Goldsboro Police Department Investigative Services Bureau.
As a result of the ensuing investigation, a warrant has been secured for the arrest of Donnie Cox Jr., 29, streets of Goldsboro, on a single count of first-degree arson.
Maj. Anthony Carmon said the residence was occupied at the time the fire was set, but there is no word yet on a motive.
"Mr. Cox was staying at the address as a temporary guest," Carmon said.
Due to privacy laws, the police department is prohibited from commenting on whether Cox has any known mental health or medical conditions, but he does have a lengthy history of alcohol-related arrests, according to police records.
Cox has no permanent address. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is asked to call Investigator Karen Zwirblia at 919-580-4242. Callers wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at 919-735-2255 or text tips to 919-222-4230. Tips leading to a felony arrest are eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.