Chief: West End fire was arson
A fire which partially gutted a West End Avenue residence last week is being declared as arson.
The unoccupied house mysteriously burst into flames around 11 p.m. last Thursday, causing significant damage to the structure before McMinnville firemen arrived and prevented the house from burning to the ground.
According to McMinnville Fire Chief Kevin Lawrence, the fire apparently began in the rear of the house. Flames could be seen licking from the residence when firemen arrived after neighbors saw the house erupt in flames.
In addition to evidence of arson, some nearby residents reported seeing someone flee the house just before the fire started. Other persons who lived in close proximity said they thought they heard a blast; however, Lawrence said there is no evidence an incendiary devise or bomb was used to start the fire.
The house was recently purchased by A.W. Myers and was apparently going to be used for rental purposes. A family who had recently lived in the house had moved out earlier in the month. Lawrence said investigators do have a suspect.