A suspected arsonist nearly suffered serious injuries Tuesday when he nearly set himself on fire while trying to set fire to a Target store in California.
The San Rafael Police Department (SRPD) is actively seeking the public's help in identifying an arson suspect who targeted a local Target store on Shoreline Parkway, according to a Facebook post. share According to SRPD, the incident, which occurred around 11:57 p.m. Monday night, resulted in extensive arson damages estimated at more than $2,500.
A clumsy arsonist nearly sets his own face on fire while trying to set fire to a California Target https://t.co/qou8aHGYLX pic.twitter.com/8q6TtdMbnr
— New York Post (@nypost) July 24, 2024
Surveillance video from the scene shows the suspect approaching an outdoor dumpster near the store's exit carrying a small garbage bag and a cardboard box. The suspect, wearing a gray hoodie, white pants, white shoes and a black backpack, was then seen pouring liquid accelerant from a white plastic container into and around the dumpster, SRPD added.
The suspect allegedly scattered accelerant in the area before setting a cardboard box on fire and tossing it in a trash can. The fire ignited quickly and a visible flash appeared to have startled the suspect, who police believe may have been injured in the process. Authorities consider the suspect to be extremely dangerous and advise the public not to approach him under any circumstances. Authorities have released surveillance camera footage to assist in identifying and locating the suspect. (Related article: Iconic First Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas destroyed by fire)
Anyone with information about this arson is asked to contact San Rafael Police at 415-485-3000 or submit a tip online at www.srpd.org/tips
