Community Risk

Arson Suspected in Eight Detroit Fires

Oct. 12, 2009

DETROIT -- Detroit firefighters said they suspect a serial arsonist is on the loose on the city's east side. Since midnight Saturday, eight houses have been set on fire, according to the Detroit Fire Department. All the houses were vacant and within a one-and a half mile radius of one another. "The firemen are in danger. The houses themselves are unsafe," said Detroit Fire Department Arson Unit Capt.

DETROIT --

Detroit firefighters said they suspect a serial arsonist is on the loose on the city's east side.

Since midnight Saturday, eight houses have been set on fire, according to the Detroit Fire Department.

All the houses were vacant and within a one-and a half mile radius of one another.

"The firemen are in danger. The houses themselves are unsafe," said Detroit Fire Department Arson Unit Capt. El Don Parharm.

Fire investigators are asking anyone who may have seen something to come forward.

Detroit Mayor Dave Bing recently kicked off the annual Angels Night anti-arson campaign.

"Our arson investigators will actively pursue those who set these blazes. This further emphasizes the need for the city to come together to fight arson on Angels Night, and every night," Bing said in a statement about the recent fires.

Anyone with information is asked to call 800-44-ARSON.

Several Vacant Houses Set Ablaze