Eerie Facebook Post Published Hours Before Fatal Structure Fire at Local Animal Rescue

BROOKSVILLE – An early morning structure fire claimed the life of one person and several animals, say officials.

Fire Rescue responded to 25410 Harwell Street at approximately 1:20 a.m. after receiving reports of a two-story structure fire. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered the home to be fully engulfed. Officials say it took 90 minutes to extinguish the fire.

During a search of the residence, firefighters discovered the remains of several animals of various types. Upon further investigation, the remains of one unidentified occupant were discovered.

The State Fire Marshal, Hernando County Sheriff's Office, and Animal Control are still investigating the cause of the fire.

The owner of the residence, who we are not identifying at this time, made several social media posts about squatters living on the property. A Facebook post published by the property owner just two hours before the incident occurred reads in part, "REAL BUMS. SO HAPPY THERE GONE. WARNING NEXT TIME You won't walk out alive." Days before the post, the owner talks about several squatters who were "finally" evicted from the property.

Officials are asking anyone with information regarding the investigation to contact Crime Stoppers or local law enforcement.

UPDATE: The victim's son Johnny Driscoll has established a Gofundme to help with costs associated with fire.

>CLICK HERE to donate to the family.