Brookhaven man arrested on arson charge after FEMA cottage fire

A 65-year-old Brookhaven man was arrested Sept. 16 and charged with arson in connection with a fire at a FEMA cottage on Fulton Street.

Kimberly Gayten is accused of setting fire to the FEMA cottage on Aug. 28, according to information released by the Mississippi Insurance Department.

The investigation began after a man inside the trailer noticed smoke outside. The man reported seeing Gayten running from the area, according to the release.

The Brookhaven Police Department arrested Gayten on Sept. 16. The State Fire Marshal’s Office assisted the department with the investigation.

The fire caused minor fire and smoke damage to the exterior of the trailer. Investigators have not yet determined the total amount of damage.

Evidence collected during the investigation remains under examination by the Mississippi State Crime Laboratory.

No additional details about a possible motive or the circumstances surrounding the alleged fire were included in the release.

Gayten's arrest is an allegation and does not constitute a finding of guilt. All persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.