The homeowner of the residence at the center of a death and arson investigation told police the man who died in the fire had entered the residence, set fire to it, attempted to assault her and shots were fired during the incident, authorities said.
Florence Police Sgt. Greg Cobb said the body of John Kalama, 81, of Florence, was found after the Sunday morning fire was extinguished.
Cobb said the homeowner, Trisha Henry, 41, reported she and her three children were asleep when Kalama entered the 123 Whisperwood Trail residence at approximately 6:45 a.m. and started a fire. She said Kalama was her former boss.