Leesburg, FL - A man has been apprehended following an arson incident that destroyed the Leesburg Masonic Lodge last week, as revealed by an affidavit.
Luke Pratt, 22, was arrested on Thursday in connection with the fire that consumed the building of the fraternal organization, situated at 200 Richey Road off West Main Street, around 10:40 p.m. on June 14, according to investigators.
Surveillance footage from that night reportedly captured Pratt approaching the lodge with a gas can and a baseball bat.
After leaving the premises momentarily, he returned, and flames erupted from the building shortly thereafter, as outlined in the arrest affidavit.
During the investigation, detectives discovered explosive devices at Pratt's residence and learned that he had confessed to his family about setting the fire.
Subsequently, he was committed under the Baker Act.
According to detectives, Pratt informed them that he had waited across the road from the lodge in the parking lot of a bowling alley until all the occupants had left.
He then approached the building, shattered the door with a baseball bat, and doused the entire property with gasoline, the affidavit stated.
Investigators further stated that he ignited the fire using matches before leaving the scene.
He returned a few minutes later to confirm that the fire was still burning. Pratt admitted to targeting the Masonic Lodge because of his anger towards its principles and a belief that they were monitoring him, according to detectives.
Last week, Leesburg Fire Chief Joe Mera declared the building a total loss.
Pratt is now facing charges of arson to an unoccupied structure and burglary.