Cops Search For Suspected Arsonists In Essex County (PHOTOS)

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Authorities are searching for suspected arsonists who allegedly walked into an Essex County residential building and set several fires inside a vacant apartment.

Newark arson detectives responded to the report of a suspicious fire shortly before 8:30 p.m., on Sept. 3 in the recently constructed Cherry Park Apartments, the Newark Department of Public Safety stated on Thursday.

“The suspects entered the building through the front door and fled through a side exit after setting several fires inside a vacant apartment,” police said. “The fire caused minimum damage and was extinguished by the building’s fire suppression system.”

Newark police released the below surveillance photos of the suspected arsonists.

“While arson investigators are actively searching for the pictured suspects, we seek the public’s assistance in quickly locating and identifying [them],” Newark authorities said.

An investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information can call the department's 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477) or 1-877-NWK-GUNS (1-877-695-4867). Anonymous tips may also be made using the Police Division’s website at: www.newarkpd.org or through its new Smartphone App available at iTunes and Google Play.

File Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com