Police seek arsonist responsible for Culmore dumpster fires

Fairfax County Crime Solvers and the Office of the Fire Marshal are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the persons responsible for a series of dumpster fires in the Culmore area.

Since February, at least 15 dumpsters have been intentionally set on fire in that area, and fire marshals believe the same suspect is responsible.

The most recent incident occured on July 10, around 2:30 a.m., in the 6000 block of Vista Drive. On July 19, three dumpsters were set afire between 4:05 a.m. and 4:35 p.m. on Glenmore Drive, Vista Drive, and Glen Carlyn Drive. Since February, nine of the incidents occurred in the 6000 block of Knollwood Drive.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Solvers at 866/411-TIPS(8477) or text “TIP187” plus your message to CRIMES(274637). A $100 to $1,000 cash reward will be paid for information that leads to an arrest. As always, callers never have to give their names or appear in court. In another police matter,

In another public safety issue, Crime Prevention Officer Brendan Murphy of the Mason District Police Station warns there has been an increase in home repair scams in our area. Murphy advises homeowners to “never pay upfront for work to be done at a  later date, and when possible, consult with a neighbor or family member if the price seems high or unreasonable.” He says solicitors must have a license.