A 30-year-old convicted felon is facing multiple charges after allegedly setting fire to a room at the El Rancho Motel in Hallandale Beach early Friday morning, in what police say was a targeted act of arson against his ex-girlfriend.
Authorities responded to the blaze around 2:40 a.m. at the motel, located at 424 N. Federal Highway. According to Hallandale Beach police, Paul Thomas Hough intentionally ignited the fire after being denied entry to the victim’s room.
“Upon arrival, officers observed the affected unit rapidly becoming engulfed in flames,” police said in a statement. “Immediate action was taken to evacuate the building, ensuring the safety of all residents.” Fire crews from Broward Sheriff’s Office quickly responded and were able to contain the fire before it spread to other parts of the building.
No injuries were reported, but the American Red Cross is assisting two people who were displaced by the fire.
Police said Hough fled the scene but was found shortly after at a nearby fast food restaurant and taken into custody. Body camera footage of the arrest was later released by police.
Hough is now facing a string of charges, including first-degree arson, burglary, and cocaine possession. Jail records show he is being held at the Broward County Main Jail with no bond listed as of Friday morning.
Florida Department of Corrections records reveal that Hough previously served more than two years in state prison for convictions that included burglary, cocaine possession, and grand theft of a firearm.
