On Thursday, June 29, 2023, at approx. 3:30am, Ocean Springs Fire Department (OSFD) was dispatched to the Ocean Springs Yacht Club located at 100 Front Beach Drive for a report of fire coming from the structure. When personnel arrived, they found an active fire on the west side exterior of the structure. There were no occupants inside the structure at the time of the incident. The fire damage was limited to the exterior of the structure with some moderate smoke damage within the interior. There were no injuries were reported.
While fire department personnel were mitigating the incident, the Ocean Springs Police Department encountered an individual that was witnessed exiting the property upon their arrival. It was determined this individual had an outstanding warrant issued by the City of Gautier, resulting in their arrest.
A fire investigation was conducted by the OSFD Fire Marshal’s Office. Evidence recovered during the investigation has resulted in the charge of 2nd Degree Arson for Cedric Jerome McCullum. McCullum is currently being held at the Jackson County ADC.