[Press Release] : Arsonist targets same central Columbia home for second time in 10 days

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Captain Eric Hartman - (573) 874-7644

Arsonist targets same central Columbia home for second time in 10 days

COLUMBIA, MO (December 12, 2008) - Columbia firefighters were called at
11:44 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 11, to 12 Fourth Avenue for a report of a
structure fire.

Firefighters arrived and found smoke and flames coming from the rear of
the vacant home. Crews brought the flames under control within 10
minutes; and used large fans to remove smoke from the home. Crews then
used thermal imaging cameras to check for hidden fire in concealed
spaces. The home suffered significant fire damage to the rear of the
structure and moderate smoke damage throughout the entire home. There
were no injuries and damage is estimated at $18,000.

The home is owned by Raymond and Charlotte Boothe.

The home was equipped with smoke alarms which were operating when fire
crews arrived.

Investigators from the Columbia Fire Department were on-scene and have
determined the fire was intentionally set. This address was also the
target of an intentionally set fire on Dec. 1. This fire is the fourth
intentionally set structure fire in the same area of central Columbia in
just over one month.

The Columbia Fire Department is asking anyone who observed suspicious
vehicles or people in the area of Fourth Avenue, or the intersection at
7 Sexton Road around 11:30-11:45 p.m., or who has information related to
this incident to call Crime Stoppers at 573-875-TIPS (8477).

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