Multiple Businesses and Vehicles Set on Fire in Gaithersburg; Incidents Being Investigated as Arson

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) Explosive Investigators are seeking information on multiple fires that occurred early Sunday morning in Gaithersburg. According to Chief Spokesperson for MCFRS Pete Piringer, at 2:30am approximately 75 firefighters responded to the Holbrook Center (across from Gaitherburg High School) at 400blk S. Frederick Ave. near Education Blvd, for the report of a fire. Investigators indicated there were at least three separate fires, all suspicious in nature.

Around 3:15am, MCFRS units then responded to LaFrontera Restaurant at 3 Russell Ave in Gaithersburg. Several vehicles were on fire, which then spread to the building.  There were also several other “outside” fires reported in the area. A person of interest has been taken into custody. Anyone with information is asked to call the arson topline at 240-777-2263. Additional images and video below courtesy of @mcfrsPIO on Twitter:

Update – Holbrook Center, 400blk S Frederick Av; @mcfrs Fire Explosive Investigators indicate the several fires (at 3 separate fires) are suspicious in nature, damage is significant (included 2 different stores & A person of interest has been identified (& in custody) pic.twitter.com/5IgdDHUJPM

— Pete Piringer (@mcfrsPIO) September 17, 2023

Russell Av, dispatched for a vehicle fire, upon arrival @mcfrs FFs encountered several separate fires, including heavy fire from 2nd floor of a commercial bldg & a ‘well-involved’ vehicle fire in parking lot, the fire(s) were quickly ‘knocked down’, there were no injuries pic.twitter.com/CPhBBnmiqo

— Pete Piringer (@mcfrsPIO) September 17, 2023