An Alabama man is under arrest after authorities say he set fire to a house, killing three dogs that were inside.

Etowah County sheriff’s deputies, along with Ivalee and Gallant volunteer firefighters, responded July 2 to a structure fire on Rogers Road in the Ivalee community.

They arrived to find three dogs – a German Shepherd, a Dachshund and a Chihuahua – dead inside, according to court records.

Sheriff Jonathon Horton said Markus Robert Landrum, of Attalla, was on the scene. He was taken to a hospital for evaluation.

Following a joint investigation by the sheriff’s detectives and the Etowah County Arson Task Force, it was determined that the fire was intentionally set.

The sheriff said evidence suggests the fire stemmed from a domestic-related incident.

Landrum, 25, is charged with arson and three counts of aggravated cruelty to animals. He is being held in the Etowah County Jail on bonds totaling $60,000.

“This is a deeply disturbing case that shows a blatant disregard for life and property,” Horton said. “We are thankful for the swift response from our local fire departments and our investigators who are working hard to ensure justice is served.”

“Cases involving intentional harm to animals and the reckless endangerment of others will always be treated with the utmost seriousness,” the sheriff said.

The investigation is ongoing.