Ex-Workers Accused in Thibodaux, Louisiana, Restaurant Fire

Two former employees are accused of torching a Western Sizzlin restaurant in Thibodaux, La., early on May 21.

Police say 18-year-old Donavan Cade Hoffpauir and 22-year-old Derrick Hebert, both of Thibodaux, were arrested on a charge of arson after allegedly confessing to burning the restaurant. If convicted, each would face up to 15 years in prison.

The Daily Comet reports investigators believe the pair discussed burning down the building, then walked over to it and started the fire with a lighter. No one was injured.

Western Sizzlin manager Mark McDonald Jr. says Hoffpauir quit his job there about four months ago. The company fired Hebert about two years ago after he allegedly punched and broke a glass cooler.

McDonald says they plan to reopen, but it could take weeks or months to complete repairs.