JOPLIN, Mo. - The Joplin Police Department is continuing to investigate an arson case on the city's east side. Now, the family involved, is speaking out on exactly what happened.
"This is where the fire department believes that the fire had started, they believe there was an accelerant that was used." Megan Stanley walks through the charred remains of her childhood home, that she and her fiancé, Darci, and their six year old daughter, have called home for years.
They were the victims of a burglary-arson back on November 5th. "You can see on the walls where it says 'you'll pay for your sins' and to 'die'."
But for Megan and Darci, they say this wasn't a random act, but that they were targeted. "This wasn't just some random arsonist that said 'hey I'm going to set this house on fire' for whatever reason, I truly believe that we were targeted because of what was said on our walls and it was specifically about our lifestyle."
"On that day that this was reported we were made aware of the vandalism and graffiti in the residence and we notified the FBI that day of the said graffiti." Captain Nick Jimenez with the Joplin Police Department says the case has not been classified as a hate crime at this time, and the FBI has simply been notified of what took place.
JPD though is still searching for suspects, and no arrests have been made at this time. "Multiple neighborhood canvasses have taken place and investigators are still currently trying to seek any leads to further this investigation."
For Megan and Darci, the hardest part, is the affect it's had on their six year old daughter. "There are some days when she's fine and happy and then there are other days where she can read something or see something and completely break down and not understand why she doesn't have a home."
Megan says they're still waiting on insurance and with the open investigation, it's slowing things down, but, they hope to salvage their home, and come back. "So yes, long-term that is our goal, however, we will have surveillance and more necessary precautions I believe."
Captain Jimenez says the department is still asking for the public's assistance in the case. If you do have any information, you're urged to contact the department.
Your tips can remain anonymous.
JPD: (417) 623-3131
Report Anonymously Online: Click Here
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2019-12-05 04:01:31Z
https://www.koamnewsnow.com/news/joplin-couple-victims-of-arson-say-they-were-targeted-because-of-their-lifestyle/1148198918
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