Homeless Man Accused of Arson After Setting Walmart Merchandise on Fire
CFD
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — A homeless man is accused of arson after investigators say he walked into a Chattanooga Walmart and set merchandise on fire, according to the Chattanooga Fire Department (CFD).
Cody Huckabee, 31, was identified as the suspect and he was arrested on February 11, 2026.
They say on the evening of February 7, 2026, surveillance footage shows Huckabee come into the Walmart at 501 Signal Mountain Road and walk to the men’s apparel section.
They say he paused at a rack of shirts and leans down for a few moments and then proceeds to walk back out of the store.
Within seconds, smoke appears from the clothing rack and next, flames become visible as the shirts begin to burn in close proximity to other customers and employees moving through the store, CFD says.
Once the fire was discovered, employees were able to extinguish it with a fire extinguisher.
The Chattanooga Fire Department and Chattanooga Police Department responded and an investigation was launched.
Huckabee is facing several charges, including:
- Aggravated Arson
- Burglary
- Reckless Endangerment
- Disorderly Conduct
He is also facing probation violations on charges of aggravated assault and theft of property.
