JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – A Jackson woman pled guilty to second-degree murder and arson in connection to the death of a man.

Hinds County District Attorney Jody Owens said Jessica Blount was sentenced to 40 years in the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC). She will serve 30 years in prison and five years of post-release supervision.

Jackson firefighters responded to Sunset Plaza Apartments in the 3500 block of Sunset Drive on June 14, 2023. When they arrived, firefighters found the body of Anthony Wilson, 41.

An autopsy revealed signs of blunt force trauma on Wilson’s body, according to Owens.

Investigators said Blount set the apartment on fire in an attempt to destroy evidence after she killed Wilson. She fled the scene and was later arrested.