Emeryville residents awoke last Saturday to the sight of vehicles engulfed in flames. At around 7:14 AM, the Emeryville Police Department rushed to Pak N Save at 3889 San Pablo Avenue following reports of a vehicle fire, only to find three vehicles blazing in the rear alley. Firefighters from the Alameda County Fire Department were hot on their heels, arriving swiftly to douse the fire and prevent any injuries from befalling bystanders or themselves.
The initial probe into the incident has since uncovered evidence pointing towards arson quickly. Surveillance footage nearby caught a glimpse of the suspect, a mustached Hispanic male estimated to be between 35 and 50 years old, setting the vehicles ablaze, and attempting, though unsuccessfully, to ignite a fourth car. Not one to easily give up, the arsonist moved on to Lanesplitter Pizza & Pub, located at 3645 San Pablo Avenue, in an attempt to light the building on fire. Photos of the suspect have been released in the hope that someone in the public sphere can help ID this man.
According to a statement published by the Emeryville Police Department, "No injuries were reported as a result of this incident." Despite the chaos at Pak N Save and Lanesplitter Pizza & Pub, it seems fortune favored the brave, and the swift response of local emergency services averted a potentially disastrous situation.
The authorities are now turning to the community for assistance, asking anyone with information regarding the suspect's identity to step forward. The Emeryville Police Department's Investigations Unit can be reached at 510-596-3700. Moreover, they've made it clear: if you spot the suspect, keep a safe distance and dial 911 immediately.
