Three Alarm Fire At Reisterstown Shopping Center Caused By Arson, Suspect In Custody

REISTERSTOWN - The three-alarm fire that damaged a Reisterstown shopping center on Tuesday night was caused by arson, according to the Baltimore County Fire Department. Officials stated that a suspect has been apprehended in connection to the incident.

Firefighters responded to the 11900 block of Reisterstown Road around 9:41 p.m. on Tuesday for reports of a fire. Officials later clarified that the fire started at the Advance Auto Parts store.

Baltimore County Police stated that officers responded to an armed robbery at a nearby Royal Farms around 9:30 p.m., only ten minutes before the fire erupted.

Police have not stated if the incidents are connected.

A Mayday call was issued by the fire department at 9:44 p.m. after a firefighter had to be evacuated from the building due to non-critical injuries.

Baltimore County Fire Department Spokesperson, Elise Armacost, clarified that a falling piece of ceiling hit the firefighter, but they were able to exit the structure on their own. They suffered non-life-threatening injuries and have since been released from the hospital.

The Advance Auto Parts store was declared a total loss due to the fire.

Armacost added that the presence of combustible materials at the auto parts store will require firefighters to remain on site as officials investigate the incident.

Residents are advised to steer clear of the site to ensure their safety and not hamper the work of the first responders.