Man Arrested for Allegedly Setting Brooklyn Store Ablaze with Molotov Cocktail

A man was arrested in connection with a fire that damaged a clothing store in Brooklyn's Borough Park neighborhood. m. on Sunday at a building on Fort Hamilton Parkway near 53rd Street. Authorities reported that the fire started inside the commercial occupancy and spread, with initial smoke observed from a neighboring e-bike factory.

The fire required a three-alarm response, involving 92 fire and emergency medical services units and approximately 200 personnel. One firefighter sustained minor injuries and was hospitalized, but no civilians were reported hurt. Officials noted that the flames burned through large amounts of stock in the store, extending up through the floor and roof.

initially believed the fire originated in the e-bike factory due to heavy smoke from the doorways.

Further investigation determined the clothing store as the starting point. The suspect fled the scene after allegedly throwing a Molotov cocktail but was later apprehended. Emergency medical workers encountered the man at the scene for public intoxication and transported him to a local hospital.

, where fire marshals arrested him. Police stated that he entered the building through a rear door without permission and rummaged through a cardboard box.

The man, aged 39, was charged with arson and burglary.

The burglary charge stems from entering the building with intent to commit a crime. His criminal record includes 15 prior arrests dating back to 2011 for offenses such as criminal trespass, robbery, criminal possession of a weapon, drug possession, and theft of service.

The most recent prior arrest occurred on April 28, 2017, involving an assault on a 31-year-old stranger in Sunset Park, where he allegedly punched the individual and stole a jacket.

The motive for the current fire remains unknown, according to police. Arraignment was pending as of Monday evening. This incident highlights the risks associated with arson in densely populated urban areas, where fires can quickly spread to adjacent structures.

The response involved significant resources, underscoring the challenges faced by emergency services in Brooklyn. No further details on the extent of property damage were immediately available.