A man is accused of intentionally setting multiple fires at a west Phoenix apartment complex after being served eviction paperwork, according to court documents.
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The first fire happened on March 4 at the Alta Vista Village Apartments near 39th Avenue and Camelback Road. The man allegedly admitted to lighting a piece of paper on fire and placing it inside a leasing office drop box shortly after receiving an eviction notice, investigators said.
RELATED: Around 25 people displaced by apartment fire in Phoenix
A second fire was reported on April 1 in the complex’s laundry room. Police say the man told investigators he poured alcohol into a trash can and set it on fire, again, after being served eviction paperwork.
The most serious incident happened on June 8 inside an apartment unit, causing a total loss and displacing other residents. According to police, surveillance video shows the man leaving the apartment with family members minutes before the fire was discovered.
Investigators say the man later admitted to pouring alcohol on furniture and mattresses inside the apartment and setting them on fire. He told police he was upset with the apartment manager and wanted retaliation.
Court documents also indicate family members may have played a role. Police say his wife allegedly acted as a lookout, while his mother-in-law encouraged the act. Charges against them could be filed at a later date.
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