May 30, 2002

PRESS RELEASE
To: Newsroom
For Immediate Release
Contact: Brian A. Crawford, Public Information Officer
Phone: 673-6652, cell: 455-2609, page: 675-2137

Overnight Building Fire Labeled Arson

Shreveport Fire Department arson investigators are looking for three youths reported running from a building last night just before it broke out in flames.

Firefighters received the call reporting the fire at the Elks Lodge and Boy Scout Troop building, 310 East Preston Avenue at 11:20 p.m. When fire crews arrived at the corner of East Preston and Captain Shreve Drive, they found smoke coming from the structure and an inside room on fire. Because of fire department’s quick response, it took firefighters just over ten minutes to bring the fire under control.

Witnesses told fire officials and Shreveport Police that they saw three white males running from the building moments before smoke started showing. As fire investigators sifted through the damage, confined to the lone interior room, they found evidence that led them to believe the fire was intentionally set. No other elaboration was forthcoming. This morning the investigation continues with the focus centering around the Shreve Island neighborhood. Anyone with information on this or any other arson crime is asked to contact the Shreveport Fire Department’s Arson Division at 673-6740. No injuries were reported. ###