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

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