Federal authorities in St. Louis executed a search warrant as part of an arson investigation in Puerto Rico involving a tourist accused of setting businesses on fire. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in St. Louis is assisting Puerto Rican authorities in the case, but no arrests have been made yet. The suspect, a woman, allegedly set fire to businesses in Cabo Rojo while tourists and residents were present, causing significant damage and putting lives at risk.
Authorities in Puerto Rico are close to charging the suspect, and videos and pictures of the incident have circulated on social media, sparking outrage. The woman, who has since left Puerto Rico and returned to the mainland United States, is accused of harassing patrons at a restaurant before returning to set fires using gasoline. The affected businesses, including a hotel and restaurant, suffered extensive damage estimated at $500,000, impacting the livelihoods of employees.
The suspect’s employer, based in St. Louis, has suspended her pending further information and expressed willingness to cooperate with the investigation. Cabo Rojo Mayor Jorge Morales Wiscovitch called for the suspect to be brought to justice quickly to face the consequences of her actions. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of residents and visitors in Puerto Rico and the need for swift action in holding the suspect accountable for her alleged crimes.
Overall, federal and Puerto Rican authorities are working together to address the arson case and ensure that the suspect is held responsible for her actions, which caused significant damage and posed a serious threat to individuals in the affected businesses.
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