Fort Lauderdale is facing a heated investigation as police look into an arson that left three vehicles severely damaged in an auto parts shop parking lot. The fire broke out yesterday morning at a NAPA Auto Parts store located at Broward Boulevard and Northwest 36th Avenue, according to NBC Miami. Authorities believe that one car was intentionally set ablaze and the fire then quickly spread to engulf two other cars parked nearby.
The Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue crews swiftly responded to the scene to swiftly take control and extinguish the flames. During their intervention, no businesses were reported to have been impacted by the fire, and thankfully, there were no injuries reported in the incident. A mess was left in the wake of the fire, with charred vehicle parts scattered on the ground and a partially burned vehicle remaining on site later that day, as NBC Miami noted.
Further details about the investigation come from WSVN, highlighting that investigators found evidence suggesting the fire might have been set on purpose. A cellphone video captured substantial flames emanating from the shop, with a bystander remarking, "I’ve never seen this live before. This is crazy."
Among the wreckage, a work truck belonging to a nearby Caribbean restaurant suffered damage due to the fire. The owner, Donovan Laing, told WSVN, "It affects us, of course. We will have to fix it." Despite the adversity, Laing expressed relief that the fire had not spread further. A restaurant worker later indicated that despite the work truck being scorched on the side, they believe it remains operational. The damaged vehicles have since been removed from the scene as the Fort Lauderdale Police continue to actively investigate the situation.
Authorities are reaching out to the community for any information related to the arson case. Tips can be forwarded to the Fort Lauderdale Police Department at 954-828-5700 or to Broward County Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS, where informants have the opportunity to remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.
