St. Pete Arson Under Investigation

ST. PETERSBURG, FL — The St. Petersburg Police Department is investigating an early Tuesday morning business fire that has been ruled arson.

According to the agency, someone broke out the front door glass at Southside Accident & Rehab, 2516 34th St. S., around 12:30 a.m. June 27. After gaining access to the front of the building, the person proceeded to pour an accelerant into the building and then light a fire, an email from the agency said.

Police say the damage to the building was minor. Even so, they’re asking the public’s help to find the person who ignited the small blaze.

Investigators say a dark-skinned black male in his 40s was spotted in the area before the fire started. He is described as standing more than 6 feet tall and weighs an estimated 300 pounds. The man had short black hair, no facial hair and was wearing black pants and a black shirt, police say.

Anyone with information about the man or the arson is asked to call the St. Petersburg Police Department at 727-893-7780.

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