Calloway Co. man charged with murder, arson after woman dies in fire

MARSHALL COUNTY, Ky. – A wanted man is behind bars after allegedly starting a structure fire that led to one woman’s death.

According to the Calloway County Sheriff’s Office, 63-year-old Jody Smith of Kirksey, Kentucky was arrested Wednesday on a warrant tied to the investigation.

Deputies say on May 19, first responders were dispatched to a residential structure fire on Saddlebrook Lane. Upon arrival, authorities say the home was fully engulfed in flames.

During the investigation, deputies say Lisa Bebber died in the fire.

According to the sheriff’s office, detectives developed probable cause to believe Smith had intentionally set the fire. Smith was taken into custody without incident.

He was lodged at the Calloway County Detention Center. He faces charges of murder and first-degree arson.

The investigation remains ongoing.

The Calloway County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Calloway County Fire Rescue, the Calloway County Coroner’s Office, the Kentucky State Police, McCracken County SRT, and the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office.