By Palm Beach and Broward Mugshots
RIVIERA BEACH, Fla. — A Riviera Beach man is facing multiple serious felony charges after investigators say surveillance footage and an extensive fire investigation linked him to a deliberately set residential fire that endangered the life of a woman inside the home.
According to investigators, 38-year-old Desmond Devon Dyke was arrested following a joint investigation conducted by the Florida Department of Financial Services, Bureau of Fire, Arson and Explosives Investigations, along with Riviera Beach Fire Rescue and the Riviera Beach Police Department.
Dyke is charged with:
- First-Degree Arson
- Attempted Felony Murder
- Criminal Attempt to Commit a First-Degree Felony
- Failure to Control or Report a Dangerous Fire
Authorities say the investigation began on May 10, 2026, after firefighters responded to a residential fire in Riviera Beach during the late afternoon hours.
When emergency crews arrived, they discovered smoke and fire originating from an exterior carport area of the residence. The home had already been evacuated, and firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze.
The woman inside the residence, Zeretha Johnson, suffered minor burns and was able to escape through a bedroom window after neighbors alerted her to the danger.
Investigators from the Florida Bureau of Fire, Arson and Explosives Investigations later conducted an extensive examination of the scene. According to the affidavit, the fire was ultimately classified as incendiary, meaning investigators determined it was intentionally set.
During their examination, investigators discovered a burned mattress believed to be the first item ignited. Authorities said the only probable source of ignition was an open flame applied by a person.
Investigators systematically ruled out other possible causes, including:
- Electrical malfunctions
- Weather-related events
- Lightning strikes
- Candles
- Smoking materials
- Other accidental ignition sources
Authorities say surveillance footage became a crucial piece of evidence.
According to investigators, multiple cameras captured a man later identified as Dyke walking through the neighborhood carrying a backpack and various objects shortly before the fire began.
The affidavit states that surveillance video showed Dyke entering the area behind neighboring homes and moving toward the residence where the fire eventually originated.
Investigators said he remained out of camera view for several minutes before reappearing and quickly leaving the area.
A short time later, smoke could be seen rising from the property.
Authorities also obtained additional surveillance footage from nearby businesses showing Dyke traveling through the area before and after the fire.
According to investigators, emergency vehicles could already be seen responding while Dyke was observed at a nearby convenience store.
Investigators further discovered that Dyke and Johnson previously had a romantic relationship and alleged there was a documented history of escalating violence between them, including prior law enforcement interactions earlier this year.
Authorities say this history established that Dyke knew Johnson was living at the residence at the time of the fire.
The investigation also revealed significant financial hardship for the homeowners, who reportedly did not have insurance coverage on the damaged residence.
Officials say the fire could have had deadly consequences had neighbors not alerted Johnson in time.
Investigators ultimately concluded there was probable cause to charge Dyke with intentionally setting the fire while knowing the home was occupied.
As with all criminal cases, the charges are allegations, and Dyke is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
DYKE, DESMOND DEVON
Arresting Agency: 84-RIVIERA BEACH
06/13/2026
Charges
806.01 1 (FF) ARSON – 1ST DEGREE ARSON
782.051 1 (FF) HOMICIDE – SPECIF FELONY COMMIT ACT COULD CAUSE DEATH
777.04 1 (FS) CRIMINAL ATTEMPT FIRST DEGREE FELONY
877.15 (MS) FAIL TO CONTROL OR REPORT DANGEROUS FIRE
Original Bond: $0.00