‘Now we don’t have s—’: Woman who moved back in with husband to ‘rekindle’ marriage torches home

A Florida woman faces arson charges after allegedly setting her husband’s home on fire following a family argument, authorities say.

Melissa Joann Dunham, 40, is accused of deliberately starting the blaze at a residence on the 4900 block of South Powell Point in Homosassa. The Citrus County Fire Rescue Department reported the fire broke out just before 10:30 a.m. Monday. Firefighters arrived to find the house engulfed in flames, requiring about an hour to bring the situation under control. Investigators determined the fire appeared to be intentionally set.

Officials noted a clear indication of Dunham’s involvement at the scene. A probable cause affidavit obtained by Law&Crime states that she was found sitting with a bottle of lighter fluid when authorities arrived.

The homeowner’s son, who turned 18 on March 17, told police that Dunham had recently moved back into the house to celebrate his birthday and attempt to repair her marriage. The couple had been separated for some time, but Dunham hoped to “rekindle” the relationship. According to the son, arguments resumed almost immediately after her return. He said his mother became upset that his father was too busy to spend time with her. On the morning of the fire, the son decided to leave the home to avoid being caught in what he described as his parents’ “toxic” dynamic.

The affidavit also describes damage caused by Dunham the night before the fire. She allegedly used a hammer to make several holes in the walls. Her husband, who was charging his phone in the car at the time, reportedly heard her shout, “now we don’t have s—,” before noticing the house was on fire.

Dunham was later arrested and questioned by detectives, though her statements are not included in the affidavit. She is being held at the Citrus County Jail without bond. Her next court appearance is scheduled for April 13.

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