Two Arson Fires in Greenbelt Investigated - Information Needed

MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

The Prince George’s County Office of the Fire Marshal is investigating two set fires that appear to have similarities.  The two fires occurred on Thursday evening, May 26, in two separate apartment buildings in the Franklin Square Apartment complex (formerly known as Spring Hill Lake), in Greenbelt. 

Both arson fires occurred just minutes apart in kitchens of vacant apartments in 3-story garden style apartment buildings in close proximity to each other.

The first fire occurred at about 10:30 pm at 5805 Cherrywood Lane in Greenbelt.   Firefighters arrived to find a working fire in the kitchen of a vacant apartment.  The fire was extinguished without incident and fire loss is estimated at $7,000.  No injuries reported.

The second fire occurred just moments later at about 10:45 pm.  Firefighters arrived at an apartment building at 5819 Cherrywood Lane and encountered a working fire in the kitchen of a vacant apartment.  This fire was also extinguished without incident.  Fire loss is estimated at $4,000 and no injuries were reported.

According to the Red Cross, 4 families, consisting of 14 people, were displaced as a result of the fires.


Prince George’s County Fire Investigators are asking for the publics help in identifying who is responsible for these arson fires.  Anyone with information is asked to call our Arson Tip Line at 301-77-ARSON (301-772-7766).  Callers may remain anonymous.

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