Mixon charged in Bank fire

Apalachicola Police Chief Bobby Varnes announced Thursday, Nov 2 the arrest of 43-year-old Joseph Mixon in connection with the Apalachicola Bank fire. On Saturday, Nov 15, Mixon slammed the seafood truck he was driving into the Apalachicola State Bank building causing an explosion and the subsequent fire that destroyed the historic structure.

Assisted by the State Attorney’s Office, the Apalachicola Police Department (APD) conducted an extensive investigation into the crash and on Thursday, Nov 20, the judge issued a warrant for Mixon arrest.

The Apalachicola Police Department charged Mixon with two counts of felony criminal mischief, and his bond was set at $250,000. If convicted, Mixon could face up to 10-years in prison and $10,000 in fines on the two counts brought by the APD. Under Florida law, criminal mischief resulting in property damage of $1,000 or more is punishable by up to 5-years in jail and/or $5,000 in fines.

The Franklin County Sheriff Office (FCSO) charged Mixon with one count of grand theft auto and a separate bond was set at $20,000.

Mixon could face even more charges in connection with the fire. The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) has an ongoing investigation into the crash and further charges may be forthcoming against Mr. Mixon by the FHP.

At this time all charges against Joseph Mixon are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.