The Fresno Fire Department is asking the public for help identifying the person believed responsible for an arson fire that broke out around 2 p.m. Thursday in the 1600 block of East Ashlan Avenue.

The shopping center houses a burger restaurant, vacant barbershop, taqueria, 7-Eleven, and clothing store, officials reported.

No injuries were reported. The incident escalated to a third alarm, with 65 firefighters working to extinguish hotspots.

Surveillance footage shows an unidentified individual in the alley behind a strip mall intentionally igniting multiple fires shortly before the building was reported burning.

The blaze caused extensive damage to the structure and the businesses inside.

Got a Tip?

Authorities urge anyone with information to remain anonymous by contacting Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-STOP (7867) or the Fresno Fire Department arson hotline at (559) 621-ARSN (2767).

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