Super Bowl champion arrested for arson

Former NFL running back Javian Hawkins, a one-time Super Bowl champion with the Los Angeles Rams, has been taken into custody in Florida following a serious arson investigation.

Alleged Crimes at Former Workplace

According to a report from FOX 35 in Orlando, Hawkins is accused of targeting his former employer, Tropic Care of Florida, after he was recently terminated from the landscaping business. Officials state that Hawkins allegedly entered the secured property, extracted gasoline from a work vehicle, and intentionally set fire to three company pickup trucks.

The resulting blaze consumed the vehicles and caused damage to the exterior of the business before Brevard County Fire Rescue teams were able to extinguish the flames. The incident took place early on July 15, leading to Hawkins' arrest on July 16.

Legal Charges and Evidence

Law enforcement officials identified Hawkins through a combination of witness statements, physical evidence, and surveillance footage. He now faces a slate of serious charges, including armed burglary, arson of a structure or business, three additional counts of arson, and felony criminal mischief.

Professional Background

Hawkins entered the professional ranks after a standout collegiate career at Louisville, where he earned All-ACC honors. During his sophomore season, the Florida native tallied 1,525 rushing yards and nine touchdowns. He followed that performance with 822 yards and seven scores over seven games in 2020 before declaring for the 2021 NFL Draft.

Though he went undrafted, Hawkins signed as a free agent with the Atlanta Falcons. During his lone season in the NFL in 2021, he spent time with the Falcons, Titans, and Rams, eventually earning a Super Bowl ring with Los Angeles.