Reference:   Suspicious Fires

            On September 18th, 2008 the Portsmouth Fire and Police Departments responded to two separate fires that were reported within minutes of each other.  The first fire was reported in the area of 116 Ledgewood Drive the second being behind the Smuttynose Brewery on Heritage Avenue.  There were no injuries reported in either instance.

             At about 8:30 PM the Portsmouth Fire Department was initially dispatched to the area of 116 Ledgewood Drive where a tree was found to be on fire.  According to the fire department the origin of the fire is unknown.  At this time it is unclear if it was accidental or intentionally set.

            Shortly after 8:30 PM the fire department was dispatched to the rear of Smuttynose Brewery on Heritage Avenue for a report of a large pile of wooden pallets that were on fire.  According to the fire department it appears as though this fire was intentionally set.

            The Portsmouth Police Department is asking for assistance from anyone who may have witnesses either incident.  Those who have any information in regards to these fires are encouraged to call Officer George Williams at (603) 610-7558.  If you wish to remain anonymous you can call Crime Stoppers Hotline at (603) 431-1199.  Rewards are available to those who provide information which leads to a conviction.

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