Arson Investigation Underway At Cafe In San Bernardino
SAN BERNARDINO (CBSLA.com) — Authorities searched for a suspect on Tuesday who intentionally set fire to a cafe in San Bernardino.
Shortly before midnight on Monday, firefighters were sent to the 1400 block of East Highland Avenue for multiple reports of a second-alarm blaze burning at a commercial building.
First responders located heavy fire and smoke showing from No Name Cafe.
Due to budget cuts, crews were not able to immediately get a handle on the blaze as they did not have enough personnel at the scene. The flames were so intense they had to evacuate.
The fire subsequently spread through the attic and roof of the building. Crews were forced to perform an operational retreat before the roof collapsed.
Crews were able to keep the flames from spreading to nearby businesses.
A suspect was seen running from the building.
According to the San Bernardino City Fire Department, an accidental kitchen fire that occurred on July 10 caused $100,000 in damage to the building.
Detectives said the fire is suspicious in nature.
The investigation is being treated as an incident of arson.
At this time, no arrests have been made.
The building is considered a total loss.