Arrest Made in Hispanic Grocery Arson Attacks

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA -- Authorities have arrested an Ellenwood man for his role in a string of arson attacks on a Hispanic market in Lawrenceville.

Michael Bernard Johnson, 18, faces five felony charges in relation to a fire that was intentionally started at the store on May 23.

They include first-degree arson, burglary, possession of a destructive device, manufacture of a destructive device and possession of tools for the commission of a crime.

Video: Men Use Molotov Cocktails To Start Market Fire

Three fires have been intentionally set at La Jalisco Super Carniceria, on Buford Drive, since the beginning of May, Gwinnett County Fire & Emergency Services officials say.

Each has been more brazen, and damaging, than the one before. Investigators believe all three attacks are related.

Fire investigators are not releasing many specifics about what led to Johnson's arrest, but confirm they are working with the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and other law enforcement agencies as the investigation continues.

Video surveillance from the May 23 fire shows at least five suspects involved. The men are shown kicking in a back door of the market and igniting what appear to be Molotov cocktails to throw into the store's aisles.

Johnson was being held without bond Tuesday at the Gwinnett County Detention Center.