Man Arrested Trying To Torch House With Girlfriend Inside

NEW SMYRNA BEACH (CBSMiami/AP) - Many people in relationships have told their significant other that they light up their life. One central Florida man took that saying a little too literally.

Volusia County Sheriff's deputies said Troy Ladd, 49, tried to burn down his house while his live-in girlfriend was still inside.

Ladd faces several charges including attempted murder and arson of a dwelling with someone inside.

According to the Daytona Beach News-Journal, the girlfriend said she saw Ladd burning his belongings in the back yard around 10 p.m. Sunday but went to bed. She said she was awakened around midnight by popping noises and when she looked up she saw Ladd pouring gasoline on the sofa.

Once outside, the girlfriend saw that her Jeep was also in flames and asked neighbors to call 911.

Responding deputies say Ladd told them they "might as well arrest" him.

No one was injured in the fire and Ladd remains in the Volusia County Jail.

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