Three of four St. Augustine fires ruled arson

The State Fire Marshal’s Office and other officials have ruled three fires in St. Augustine as arson, and they are on-scene at a fourth to determine whether it’s related as well.

Firefighters responded to four different structures early Monday morning. Robert Growick with the Fire Marshal’s Office says he has “no doubt” they are connected, presuming the fourth structure is also ruled arson.

Investigators have so far assessed 17 Saragossa St., 34 Cordova St., and 45 Cordova Street.  They are on-scene at 91 Park Place, however Growick says that investigation will be more difficult because of the extent of the damage.

“Someone started ordering combustible materials under and next to two of the buildings,” Growick said.

No one was injured in any of the four fires.

We’re told a person of interest has been identified. We’re working to gather more details and will update you through today. Until the person responsible is caught, however, Growick says you need to take steps to make sure you’re protected.

“People need to be vigilant,” he says.

Growick says you should make sure all your smoke detectors are in working order and their batteries are fresh. He further says that if you believe you smell a fire, you should evacuate immediately.