LAPLACE -A man was arrested Saturday morning in connection to an arson that destroyed a daycare facility and three cars in Laplace. 

The State Fire Marshal's Office said 39-year-old Timothy Charles Jr. of Reserve was arrested for intentionally setting fire to Little Harvard Learning Academy, a daycare in the former St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church. Authorities said Charles is the ex-husband of the daycare owner. 

Officials said Charles set fire to the daycare around 11:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 16. Fire investigators said the flames destroyed the building, three cars and threatened a nearby home. 

Charles was booked with aggravated arson and simple burglary.