Suspect arrested after man’s remains found in burned Mississippi home

SMITH COUNTY, Mississippi (WJTV) – A man has been arrested after human remains were discovered in a burned home in Smith County.

Smith County Sheriff Joel Houston said emergency crews were called to a home fire on SCR 558 in the Homewood community on May 3, 2024.

According to Houston, homeowner Frank Black was missing and believed to still be inside the burning building. After the fire was extinguished, emergency crews searched the home and discovered Black’s remains.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office and Smith County investigators secured evidence at the scene.

On May 13, according to the sheriff’s office, Billy Black was taken in for questioning, which led to his arrest and charge of non-residential burglary resulting from a separate incident.

Authorities continued to investigate the case, collecting additional evidence and conducting interviews.

On June 18, 2024, Billy Black was charged with first-degree arson and premeditated murder in this case.

“Cases of this nature can sometimes drag on, and I want to thank the public for their patience and support as we have worked diligently on this horrific case. If you have any information about this case that you feel could be helpful, please call the Sheriff’s Office at 601-782-4531,” Houston said.