Thibodaux, Louisiana Firefighter Accused of Arson at Grandparents' Home

THIBODAUX, La. (AP) -- A Lafourche Parish volunteer firefighter put out a fire at his grandparents' home with a garden hose, but was later arrested and accused of setting the fire himself, authorities said Tuesday.

Louis Legendre Jr. admitted to investigators that he set fire to the home - aware that his elderly grandparents were inside - because ``he wanted to be a hero,'' according to a statement from the sheriff's office. Legendre allegedly used a cigarette lighter to set the fire, which caused minor damage and no injuries, the statement said.

Legendre, 27, of Thibodaux, was arrested Sunday and charged with aggravated arson. He was released from the parish jail Monday on a personal recognizance bond.