A federal court hearing in Houston, Texas, has revealed many findings from the FBI’s investigation into Lyndell ‘Lynn’ Price. The former Turkey Leg Hut co-owner, alongside his alleged accomplices, were arrested on April 18 on arson charges. Now, investigators are presenting all their discoveries in court, following a years-long investigation.
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An FBI Agent Testified During The Hearing
Per the Houston Chronicle, FBI agent Deborah Cline took the stand on Thursday, May 1, claiming that Price allegedly paid $1,400 to John Lee Price and Armani Williams to torch Bar 5015. His fellow former business partner at Turkey Leg Hut, Steven Rogers, owned the establishment. According to Cline, the motive was an alleged grudge over a failed business deal. Cline said Lyndell Price recruited the duo to douse the bar’s entrance ramp with gasoline and light it up all to settle the score.
But there was more. Lee Price, a former Turkey Leg Hut employee, cooperated with the FBI during a 2023 Mississippi drug bust. Price confessed that he helped set the bar ablaze on Lyndell Price’s orders. Cline testified that he previously told investigators how Turkey Leg Hut was a front for a massive weed operation, with hundreds of pounds of marijuana stashed and shipped in the restaurant’s packaging.
Turkey Leg Hut Owner Texted Rogers He’d “Blow Up” His Bar
Agent Cline alleged that Lyndell Price had been targeting Rogers since 2019, when Rogers purchased Bar 5015. Initially, Rogers planned to team up with Lyndell Price and his ex-wife, Nakia Holmes, but backed out. That sparked tension between the pair. When Lyndell Price later rolled up to the bar with a “box of cash” to buy in, Rogers shut him down. That’s when Lyndell Price allegedly fired off texts to Rogers, mocking Bar 5015 for allegedly being a knockoff of Turkey Leg Hut. Price also warned him the spot would “blow up.” Additionally, law enforcement also raided Lyndell Price’s apartment, where they discovered an arsenal, including a flamethrower and unregistered guns.
Lyndell Price’s Not Guilty Plea & His Estranged Wife’s Statement
Lyndell Price pleaded not guilty to a three-count indictment, including conspiracy to commit arson and using an interstate facility to torch a vehicle. After the hearing, the judge ordered Lyndell Price to be held without bond. Williams and Lee Price walked free pending future court dates.
Meanwhile, Price’s estranged wife told ESSENCE she’s fiercely protecting her peace, her kids, and their “healing journey.” She described the case as a personal nightmare and revealed having split from Price a while ago.
“In light of the recent events involving my estranged husband, Lynn Price, I want to make it clear that my primary focus remains on protecting my peace, my children, and our healing journey,” she said. “This is a deeply painful and personal matter. I have been separated from Mr. Price for some time and have taken every necessary step to distance myself and my family from his actions and legal affairs. My children and I ask for privacy, compassion, and understanding as we continue to move forward with strength and grace. I will not be commenting further at this time, as my priority is the well-being of my family.”
Former Turkey Leg Hut co-owner Lyndell Price has pleaded not guilty to charges related to the explosive 2020 fire at a bar in Houston's Third Ward. @DeniseFOX26 explains the charges and reads a statement from Price's estranged wife and former business partner. pic.twitter.com/eYIdopaxSN
— FOX26Houston (@FOX26Houston) May 1, 2025
