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3 suspicious fires being probed
By John W. GOODWIN Jr.
YOUNGSTOWN
Three suspicious fires set in the same night are under investigation — one at a house with apparent illegal activity taking place.
Firefighters were sent to 90 E. Philadelphia Ave. just before 8 p.m. Monday. They found the back door to the home open and a fire that had spread from the kitchen to the living room and onto a back porch.
Firefighters also found an apparent marijuana- growing operation on the second floor of the house with marijuana plants in pots in two rooms. There also was marijuana-growing equipment found, tarp over windows and a foil- type paper covering the floors.
Firefighters said the house appeared to be vacant for some time, but there was electrical service.
Damage to the property is estimated at $7,000.
One firefighter injured his left shoulder while battling the blaze. The injury was treated with ice after firefighters cleared the scene.
Firefighters also were sent to 1520 Himrod Ave. shortly after 4 a.m. The second floor and attic area of the vacant home were engulfed in flames.
Firefighters allowed the structure to burn to the ground because the roof was set to collapse and risk firefighters’ safety.
Damage to the property is estimated at $5,000.
A third fire at 36 E. Judson Ave. reported at 8:35 p.m. also is under investigation.
Firefighters said the home was vacant with much debris throughout. Firefighters noted various points of fire ignition including in the dining room, hallway, kitchen and basement.
Damage to the property was estimated at $2,500.