East Toledo fire probed as suspect, official says

9/17/2011
BLADE STAFF AND NEWS SERVICES

Fire investigators suspect an East Toledo apartment fire Friday was arson, battalion Chief James Price said.

The blaze started in apartment No. 2 of the four-apartment building at 24 Poplar St. It was reported just after 4 a.m.

Fire Lt. Matt Hertzfeld said the fire started near the unit's front entrance and spread to a couch before destroying the apartment. There was fire damage to one other unit and smoke damage in the remaining two apartments.

Fire officials estimated damage at $150,000. According to the Lucas County auditor's Web site, the building was bought in December by Lad Properties, which has a Fremont mailing address.

The American Red Cross provided food and clothing assistance to three adults and a child who were occupants, said Jason Copsey, spokesman for the Greater Toledo Area Chapter.