Cairo fire under investigation after suspected arson

ATLANTA – Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King announced today that a structure fire at 1235 Martin Luther King Avenue, Cairo, Georgia, is under investigation.

On Monday, September 2, at approximately 2:20 a.m., Cairo Fire Department personnel were dispatched to a fire at a building that formerly housed Cal’s Place and Nate’s Place. Upon extinguishment, investigators from the State Fire Marshal’s Office were requested to serve as the primary investigative agency.

"Video surveillance obtained by investigators shows an unidentified male throwing a 'Molotov-cocktail' onto the roof of the structure before fleeing the scene," said Commissioner King. "We are asking for the public's assistance to help identify the suspect. A reward of up to $10,000 is available for information that leads to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for arson."

If you have information on this fire, please call the Georgia Arson Control Hotline at 1-800-282-5804. Callers may remain anonymous.

The office is working with the Cairo Fire Department and Sheriff’s Office on this investigation.

The mission of the Office of Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire is to protect Georgia families by providing access to vital insurance products and safe buildings through fair regulation that creates economic opportunities for all Georgians.

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