Fire truck racing to the emergency scene. File photo — Fire truck racing to the emergency scene. File Photo

Amarillo, TX – A Texas man faces murder charges for allegedly setting his roommate on fire while the victim was still alive. The incident occurred at a trailer park on October 27, leading to the discovery of a dead body inside an RV trailer.

First responders arrived at 4:53 a.m. to find the trailer engulfed in flames. After extinguishing the blaze, they found the body of 46-year-old James Sosa inside.

Witnesses reported seeing an individual fleeing the scene just before the smoke appeared. Authorities identified Sosa, and an autopsy revealed signs that he was alive during the fire.

Luis Angel Rico, also 46, returned to the scene later that day and claimed he last saw Sosa watching TV and burning a candle between 1 a.m. and 2:30 a.m. Rico stated he noticed smoke coming from the direction of the trailer but assumed Sosa was still inside.

When he found the trailer ablaze, he attempted to call 911 but heard sirens approaching already. Law enforcement questioned Rico, who denied involvement in the fire.

Officers noted he smelled of gasoline and had soot on his hands. Rico was arrested after police found four fentanyl tablets in his possession.

Further investigation indicated the presence of an accelerant on Rico’s clothing. He has been charged with murder and is currently held in the Potter County Jail without bond.

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