Miami Fire Rescue says blaze at mechanic shop was set by arsonist
MIAMI - There are new details about a raging inferno that swept through a Miami business in the pre-dawn darkness of Friday morning.
A spokesman for Miami Fire Rescue tells CBS News MIami's Peter D'Oench that the blaze that they responded to at 5:20 a.m. at the Power Muffler Mechanic shop at 7751 N.W. 7th Ave. was intentionally set by someone after the business had been broken into.
The spokesman said gasoline cans were found at the scene.
The owner of the business did not want to say anything on camera but this case remains a mystery. It's not known who targeted his business and why that was done.
Fortunately, no one was injured because the business was closed at the time. It was a stubborn inferno and Fire Rescue had to fight it aggressively as flames engulfed the business.
Police spokeswoman, Officer Kiera Delva said "The evidence suggests that this was an intentional crime that occurred. We would like anyone with information to please come forward and help. Our detectives do not take these cases lightly and we urge anyone with information to come forward. We need the community's help.."
She said, "It's not clear how the fire was put in place however we do know our detectives are continuing their investigation and looking at all means necessary to determine how this happened. Our detectives responded to the scene and they have been speaking with witnesses and working on obtaining surveillance tape that may show what occurred."
Delva said, "It does appear that this was in fact a targeted crime we are working with the victim, the owner to see if he may know who did this and why."
Delva said at least six vehicles were damaged. A CBS News Miami crew showed the damage to them.
"Again we need the community's assistance and our detectives would like to hear from anyone with information," said Delva.
Police detectives were seen scouring the neighborhood for surveillance tape and witnesses.
Anyone who can help should call Miami Police or Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at (305) 471-TIPS (8477).
