Arsonist Used Molotov Cocktails, Other Devices to Set Near North Side Fires: Cops

CHICAGO, IL — Police are warning Near North Side residents to watch out for a man who has been using Molotov cocktails and other incendiary devices and chemicals to start fires in the neighborhood.

The man is suspected of at least eight arsons in the area from as far back as February of this year, police said. The following are the locations and times of fires authorities believe the man has set:

• 2:15 a.m. Feb. 29, 1900 block of North Clifton Avenue
• 12:01 a.m. March 14, 1200 block of West Cortland Avenue
• 1:03 a.m. March 26, 1700 block of North Kingsbury Street
• 1:30 a.m. April 19, 1000 block of West North Avenue
• 1:03 a.m. Sept. 11, 1900 block of North Kingsbury Street
• 1:03 a.m. Oct. 10, 1900 block of North Clifton Avenue

The suspect is described as white or Hispanic, in his early 20s, between 5 feet 8 and 6 feet tall and around 160 to 180 pounds, police said. He also is reported to be driving a silver Ford Mustang with body damage on the passenger side.

photo via Shutterstock

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