PHOTO: Fire marshals and cops this week reached out to the public for help in tracking down a serial arsonist who torched at least four sites in Forest Hills last month. Photo Courtesy of NYPD
Investigators this week reached out to the public to help them smoke out a Forest Hills firebug who they say is solely responsible for at least four arsons—all on construction sites—in November alone.
In each case, the suspect entered the site and ignited flammable combustibles before fleeing on foot, according to the city Police Department.
- Incident 1: Approximately 9:30 am on Sunday, Nov. 8, at 68-60 112 St.
- Incident 2: Approximately 10:10 pm on Sunday, Nov. 15, at 112-35 69 Rd.
- Incident 3: Approximately 6:30 pm on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at 108-49 66 Ave.
- Incident 4: Approximately 11:12 pm on Wednesday, Nov. 25, at 108-47 67 Dr.
The four intentionally set fires are part of a larger cluster of seven suspicious blazes in Forest Hills and Rego Park that investigators with the FDNY, 112th Precinct Detective Squad, and NYPD Arson and Explosion Squad have determined began on Tuesday, Oct. 20, and have resulted in property damage and one minor injury to a firefighter. Three of the fires actually spread to adjoining properties, causing additional damage and the displacement of 13 people.
Based on video evidence, cops said, the perpetrator is believed to be a white or light Hispanic man, 5-foot-6 to 5-foot-7, slim build, and dressed in a hooded sweatshirt.
Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit tips by logging onto nypdcrimestoppers.com, or by texting CRIMES (274637), then enter TIP577.
All calls are strictly confidential.
By Michael V. Cusenza michael@theforumnewsgroup.com
