St. Rose fires blamed on arson

Occurred weeks apart at same convenience store

Two fires at the same St. Rose convenience store have been called arson by the Louisiana state fire marshal, who is urging those with information about the blazes to come forward.

The fires occurred at the Quick and Fast convenience store, which is located on River Road west of St. Rose Avenue. Both the St. Rose and Norco Volunteer Fire Departments responded to the fires on Nov. 27 and again on Dec. 4.

According to Fire Marshal H. “Butch” Browning, the fires have left the building uninhabitable. Browning said that investigators are working with the St. Charles Parish Sheriff's Office and have collected evidence from the crime scene as well as information from witnesses that could lead to arrests.

“The crime of arson will not be tolerated in this state,” Browning said. “Persons with knowledge or information need to do the right thing and call our office now.”

Anyone having information is asked to call the State Fire Marshal at (225)268-5562 or 1-800- 256-5452.