DETROIT – Authorities say the Detroit fire department responded to a string of 17 suspected arson fires that burned over a roughly 12-hour period.
The department confirmed Tuesday that they believe this is the work of a firebug.
Monday was the night of the city's annual fireworks display over the Detroit River which is typically a busy night for firefighters.
Detroit Deputy Fire Commissioner Charles Simms said the trend is disturbing.
“For the past several years we’ve been busy during fireworks night so this was a typical night,” Simms said.
Simms kept four arson investigative teams on overtime to track down the arsonists putting firefighter lives in danger and further blighting the city.
One fire burned three houses, including one that collapsed. There were reports of people squatting in the house. It happened on Fischer Street.
One of the homeowners, Kia Williams, was in the process of moving out before losing the home.
“It’s dangerous,” Williams said. “If you want to play with fire, you know, take it upon yourself to go somewhere where you can’t hurt anybody or anything.”
The fire department is asking anyone with information to call 313-628-2900. There is a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction.