Multiple fires set in North Philadelphia, police take man into custody

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Wednesday, May 20, 2020
Philadelphia police arrest man after alleged arson spree in North Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Philadelphia police are investigating a series of fires they say were intentionally set in North Philadelphia Wednesday morning.

Police said they received several reports that a man wearing a windbreaker and jeans and carrying a large book back was seen setting numerous fires in the area of Broad Street and Norris Avenue around 8:30 a.m.

Chopper 6 was over the fire scenes Wednesday morning as police investigated.

Chopper 6 was over multiple fire scenes in North Philadelphia on Wednesday morning.

Fire crews responded to a vacant house fire on the 1500 block of West York Street.

Officials said a second call later came in for a fire at a vacant warehouse on the 2600 block of North Broad Street.

There was also another call for a car fire that police said was tied to the same person.

Police arrested a man fitting the description of the suspect at 69th Street Station in Upper Darby. Officers said they recovered a book bag.

No injuries have been reported.

***This story is developing. Check back with 6abc.com for updates.***

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