‘There is a threat to the public’: Police says recent fires connected in S. Fargo
FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – Fargo Police want your help to identify those involved with a string of suspected arsons in S. Fargo. Police say five fires in the 900 Block of 42nd Street South and one in the 1100 Block were set intentionally.
“It’s been a scary thing,” said Esther Grossman, a resident in the arson area. “The residents are frightened. We don’t really know if our garage is first or our family’s next.”
Here’s a timeline of the six garage fires that happened late into the night according to Fargo Police:
- June 27
- July 18
- August 5 and 13
- September 30
- November 6.
“Currently under investigation to see how everything is connected,” said Capt. Bill Ahlfeldt. “Who might have done these apparent arsons and try and prevent anymore from happening. So it was caught by looking at data and seeing what reports were taken.”
While thankfully no one has been hurt by the fires, Capt. Ahlfeldt says there is a lot of concern because it is happening near homes.
“There is a threat to the public,” said Capt. Ahlfeldt. “We don’t know where this person might strike next. But what I would say to the people in the area is that if you see anything suspicious or see anyone suspicious, please don’t hesitate to call the police department and have us check that out.”
Residents in the area tell us that they are on edge because they have no idea when it will strike next. Esther Grossman, who has been a resident there for five years, says the fire on Monday was really close to her car.
“The ones that started on fire, through the rafters there was cinders and everything went all over my car,” said Grossman. “So now I don’t dare park my car in there for fear I’m the next one to get it.”
The FPD is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the person or persons responsible for intentionally setting the fires. Anyone with information is asked to call the FPD at 701-241-5777. Anonymous tips can be submitted by texting keyword FARGOPD and the tip to 847411.
