By Staff Report
A Bonifay woman has been charged with first‑degree arson following an investigation into a residential structure fire on Scenic Circle Drive in Bonifay earlier this week.
Bonifay Fire‑Rescue was dispatched to the reported fire, where crews arrived to find that the room‑and‑contents blaze had been extinguished just prior to their arrival. One occupant was assisted from the residence, and one person was transported by Holmes County EMS for further evaluation.
Due to the suspicious nature of the fire, the Florida Bureau of Fire, Arson, and Explosives Investigations was requested to respond. The scene was turned over to the Bonifay Police Department and state fire investigators for further review.
Fire Chief Travis Cook praised the teamwork between agencies.
“This is a great example of why the work doesn’t always end when the fire is out. Our crews recognized that something wasn’t right and made sure the appropriate resources were brought in,” said Cook. “We appreciate the work of the Bonifay Police Department and our state fire investigators in following this case through.”
Following the investigation, Stephanie Caroline Seffert, 54, of Bonifay, was arrested and charged with first‑degree arson in connection with the incident. She was booked into the Holmes County Jail.
The Bonifay Police Department said that no other suspects have been identified at this time and the investigation remains ongoing.
AMBER PATINO 