Arrest in string of Camden arsons that injured 7 firefighters

CAMDEN, N.J. (WPVI) -- Authorities have announced an arrest in a string of arsons in Camden that left seven firefighters injured.

44-year-old Charles Ricks, Jr. of Camden is charged with 14 counts of arson.

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Camden firefighters were busy Sunday afternoon battling multiple fires.

The series of arsons reached its peak last weekend after thirteen fires were reported in just two days.

Officials say nine fires were set on Sunday alone, all within one mile of each other. Most were set at vacant homes.

Camden firefighters were busy Sunday afternoon battling at least nine fires, all taking place within a one-mile radius. (Jonathan Molina)

Seven firefighters were hurt battling the blazes. They were treated for injuries ranging from exhaustion to a hand injury, officials said.

Investigators say video from surveillance cameras near the locations of several fires led them to Ricks.

Camden firefighters were busy Sunday afternoon battling at least nine fires, all taking place within a one-mile radius.

They believe Ricks worked alone.

He is now behind bars in lieu of $200,000 bail.