Video: Police Want To Identify Man Seen Setting Fire To Champs

TAMPA, FL — Tampa Police are attempting to identify a man they believe is responsible for setting fire to the Champs sporting goods store at 2381 Fowler Ave. Saturday night.

The store was set on fire during the civil unrest that occurred following peaceful marches to protest the death of George Floyd at the hands of a Minneapolis Police officer.

As the marchers reached the area around East Busch Boulevard and North 30th Street in Tampa around 6 p.m., violence broke out with protesters shooting bottle rockets at police and throwing rocks and bottles.

The Mobil gas station convenience store at North 30th Street and East Busch Boulevard was set on fire at about 8:45 p.m. Police had to clear the crowds so fire rescue crews could douse the flames before the fire spread to the gas pumps, causing an explosion.

Then, some time after 11 p.m., the Champs store was broken into and looted. Police believe the man in the video then set fire to the store. The Saigon Bay restaurant next to Champs was also severely damaged by fire.

Anyone who recognizes this man is asked to contact Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay Inc. or send tips here.

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