OHIO — Police in Youngstown are investigating after a man allegedly attempted to start a fire inside a Dollar General store earlier this week.
According to a police report, the incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 3, at the Dollar General located on Belmont Avenue.
Store management alerted authorities after reviewing security footage that reportedly shows a white male wearing a red Ohio State hoodie and gray shorts walking from the clothing aisle toward the candy and cleaning supply aisle. Police said the suspect then removed a pack of clothing from his hoodie pocket.
Investigators say the video shows the man using what appeared to be a lighter to ignite the pack of shirts. As the flames began to grow, the suspect allegedly placed the burning clothing inside a box of brooms in an apparent attempt to start a larger fire. According to police, the attempt was unsuccessful.
Authorities said the suspect then left the store with another man who had been purchasing items during the incident. The two individuals reportedly left the area in a blue 2022 Jeep Compass.
No injuries were reported, and no suspects have been identified at this time. Police said the incident remains under investigation.
