Hammond, Louisiana – A Christmas Eve inferno at the Hammond Walmart is now linked to a local man, with federal arson charges filed this week. Terrence Coe, 29, of Hammond, was indicted by a grand jury on a single count of arson, authorities announced Tuesday.
According to the indictment, Coe allegedly maliciously damaged and destroyed the Walmart building located at 2799 W. Thomas Street on or around December 24, 2022. The blaze caused significant damage, though the extent remains undisclosed. Federal investigators have been tight-lipped about a potential motive.
If convicted of the arson charge, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 844(i), Coe faces a hefty penalty. He could receive a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment, along with a fine of up to $250,000. Additionally, the sentence includes up to 3 years of supervised release and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans cautioned that the indictment is merely an accusation, and Coe is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The wheels of justice will turn, but the burden rests with the prosecution to deliver concrete evidence.
The investigation into the Walmart arson was a joint effort spearheaded by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with critical support from the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal and the Hammond Fire Department. These agencies worked tirelessly to piece together the events of that night and identify a suspect.
Assistant United States Attorney Troy L. Bell of the General Crimes Unit will lead the prosecution, tasked with building a case strong enough to secure a conviction. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it moves through the federal court system, bringing you the raw details as they emerge.
Related Federal Cases
- Terrence Thompson Jr., Mail Theft, Gretna LA, 2023 · Alabama
- Terrence Thompson Jr., Mail Theft, New Orleans LA, 2023 · Alabama
- Terrence Thompson Jr., Letter Theft, LA, 2023 · Alabama
- Terrence Thompson Jr., Mail Theft, Gretna LA, 2023 · Alabama
- Terrence Thompson Jr., Mail Theft, New Orleans LA, 2026 · Alabama
Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free
Browse More
