Fire Department suspects arson in northeast Columbia fire

COLUMBIA — Fire fighters responded to a call at 2308 Hendrix Drive around 3:30 a.m. on Wednesday. By the time they arrived, residents Lori and Forest McKee had already evacuated the home and had contained the fire to the front porch and garage area using a garden hose, said Battalion Chief Steven Sapp of the Columbia Fire Department.

No one was injured in the incident, Sapp said. Damage to the garage door and vinyl siding is estimated at $2,000.

Ignitable liquid is thought to be the cause of the fire, Sapp said. Fire investigators suspect arson and will continue an investigation for suspect information with other law enforcement, Sapp said.

Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers at 573-875-TIPS (8477), the Columbia Fire Department Fire Marshal’s Division at 573-874-7556, or the ARSON HOTLINE at 1-800-39-ARSON (1-800-392-7766). Those with information leading to an arrest are eligible for a reward up to $5,000.