On February 13th, 2024, around 7:36 pm, Sacramento Police Department patrol officers responded to reports of an arson in progress in the 7500 Block of Handly Way. Officers arrived on scene and located the Sacramento Fire Department battling a fully engulfed residence. During their efforts, fire personnel located a deceased male adult inside of the residence.

Due to the circumstances, homicide detectives, arson investigators, and crime scene investigators responded to take over the investigation. They processed the scene, canvassed the area, and interviewed witnesses. The circumstances of the incident remain under investigation.

The Sacramento County Coroner’s Office will release the identity of the deceased after next of kin have been notified.

Thanks to the phenomenal work by the initial responding officers, arson investigators, and detectives, the suspect in this case, 28-year-old James Joseph of Sacramento, was arrested and will be booked at the Sacramento County Main Jail on arson and homicide charges.

The Sacramento Police Department encourages any witnesses with information regarding this investigation to contact the dispatch center at (916) 808-5471 or Sacramento Valley Crime Stoppers at (916) 443-HELP (4357). Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward up to $1,000.  Anonymous tips can also be submitted using the free “P3 Tips” smartphone app.