CAUGHT ON CAMERA: Arsonist sets fire to bar in Old Town Spring
SPRING, TX (KTRK) -- Harris County fire investigators are hoping newly released security video will lead to the arrest of an arsonist.
It was around 4am on Thursday, June 11th when firefighters responded to a reported fire at the Cross Track Ice House in Old Town Spring.
"Upon arrival, firefighters saw flames coming out of the sides of the structure. And there were some other fairly tell-tale signs that the fire was suspicious," said Scott Schoonover, an investigator with the Harris County Fire Marshal's Office.
"The video is a major step forward in our investigation," Schoonover said.
The video in question shows a man entering the saloon from the rear of the building, carrying what appears to be a gas can. The man can be seen pouring a flammable liquid throughout the bar's interior.
"He spent enough time to really soak it," Schoonover said.
Towards the end of the video, the man can be seen exiting the back stairwell, then lighting what appears to be a match. Flames then quickly spread throughout the bar.
Crime Stoppers is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest in this case. Reports may remain anonymous. Crime Stoppers can be reached at 713-222-TIPS.
