Arson Suspected in Southeast Kansas Business Fire

Investigators believe a fire that destroyed five businesses in southeast Kansas was intentionally set.

A police officer spotted the flames around 2 a.m. on April 12 at a Pittsburg strip mall. No one was injured, but the blaze left the five businesses – including a cell phone store and a chiropractor’s office – in ruins.

Investigator John Harrison of the state fire marshal’s office said April 13 that arson is suspected but not yet confirmed. Agents from the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are assisting with the investigation.

Authorities found signs of forced entry at one of the businesses. Pittsburg police say at least two of the businesses had been burglarized in the past.

Information from: The Joplin Globe, www.joplinglobe.com