BPD seeks person of interest

Beaumont police investigators are looking for a person of interest and need the public’s help. Detectives wish to speak with Channin Keon Ardoin, a 39-year-old Beaumont man. Investigators believe Ardoin has information about a structure fire that occurred Friday, Oct. 7.

At about 9:32 a.m. that day, officers responded to the 4500 block of Dallas Avenue to assist Beaumont Fire Rescue with a structure fire. Teams entered the structure and extinguished the fire. However, a fire investigator discovered a deceased person inside the residence.

Beaumont Fire Department (BFD) investigators and Beaumont police investigators are working together to investigate the suspected arson and deceased person investigation. The victim is Jason West, 41, and cause of death are pending autopsy.

The victim’s blue 2012 Hyundai Sonata (TXLP NFW3452) was not located at the scene.

Beaumont investigators believe Ardoin drove the victim’s blue Hyundai Sonata northbound on Highway 69 from Beaumont to Huntington, where he was spotted by a Huntington police officer. He then fled from the officer until he wrecked the car in the parking lot of Metal Mart on Highway 69, about one mile from the Lufkin city limits. He then fled on foot and remains at-large.

“If you have information about this investigation, contact the Beaumont Police Department, 409-832-1234,” BPD asks. “If you wish to remain anonymous and be eligible for a possible cash reward, contact Crime Stoppers of Southeast Texas. Call (409) 833-TIPS, log on to 833TIPS.com or use the P3 TIPS app and submit your tip using a smartphone or tablet. All tips to Crime Stoppers of Southeast Texas will remain anonymous and you may qualify for a cash reward.”