[Press Release] : Columbia fire investigators determine vehicle fire to be incendiary

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Battalion Chief Steven E. Sapp - Public Information Officer -
(573) 499-7035

Columbia fire investigators determine vehicle fire to be incendiary

COLUMBIA, MO (March 11, 2008) - Columbia firefighters were called just
after 1 a.m. on Monday, March 10, to 3807 Brown Station Road for a
report of a vehicle fire. Upon arrival, firefighters found that radiant
heat from the original vehicle blaze had ignited a second vehicle. 

Witnesses and law enforcement officers reported a small "explosion"
during the fire, but firefighters and fire investigators believe the
"explosion" was the result of several tires on the vehicles failing, and
possibly the ignition of pooled gasoline when the fuel line in the first
vehicle failed. There was no evidence of an explosive device found on
the scene. 

The fire began in a 1999 Toyota Corolla, which was destroyed. The
vehicle damaged by radiant heat, a 928 Porsche, suffered significant
heat damage. 

Fire investigators believe the fire in the Toyota was intentionally
set. The Columbia Fire Department Fire Marshal's Division requested the
assistance of the Major Crimes Unit of the Columbia Police Department to
assist with the investigation. 

No further information is available for release on this incident
currently. Updates will be sent when additional information can be
released. 

The public is asked for assistance by calling Crime Stoppers at
(573)-875-TIPS with any information concerning this incident. The public
may also call the ARSON HOTLINE at 1-800-39-ARSON to report information
concerning this fire. Information leading to an arrest is eligible for
up to a $5,000 reward through the ARSON HOTLINE. 

- 30 -
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