Fires were set in one Gwinnett County business on three separate Mondays in May, but on Wednesday fire officials got a good look at the suspects.
Video surveillance released Wednesday shows more clearly the people involved in at least one fire and gives investigators a glimpse into a possible motive.
Two men in gray hoodies are seen in the video loitering in front of La Jalisco Super Carniceria on Buford Drive in Lawrenceville, the third Gwinnett County business damaged by arson this month.
Both are then seen as they make two attempts to kick-in the front door of the coin shop, before going around back to ignite the fire, Gwinnett Fire Captain Tommy Rutledge said.
“It appears that burglary may have been the reason the trio was trying to gain access inside the coin shop,” Rutledge said.
They are seen throwing several homemade explosives devices — possibly Molotov cocktails — in the center of the store to ignite contents on fire.
“These individuals committed a very dangerous act and need to be apprehended before someone is injured or more-severe property damage occurs,” Rutledge said.
The first of the fires happened May 2 about 8 a.m. An employee smelled gasoline and found a mop soaked in gas leaning against the back door. After the door opened, the mop fell, leaving burn marks on the door before the fire burned out.
A passerby called 911 on May 16 about the second fire, when smoke was seen coming from the back of the business.
Though the third fire was quickly extinguished, the arson attack damaged the store and ceiling.
Rutledge called the latest fire the most bold and daring.
All three fires are connected and all are under active investigation as an act of arson and a reward of up to $10,000 is offered for information leading to arrest and conviction.
Anyone with information is asked to call 1-800-282-5804 or visit www.georgiaarsoncontrol.com.
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