15 fires, no motive: Why a DeKalb man is accused of serial arson
Man arrested in 15 DeKalb County brush fires
A 37-year-old man is in DeKalb County jail after fire investigators used surveillance footage to link him to at least 15 brush fires near Georgia State University's Clarkston campus.
DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. - A 37-year-old man is in jail after DeKalb County officials accused him of setting more than a dozen brush fires near Georgia State University’s Clarkston campus.
PREVIOUS STORY: Man caught after more than 11 fires sparked around Clarkston
What we know:
DeKalb County leaders identified the man as Wasim Majeed. Officials say evidence ties Majeed to 15 fires set between Sunday night and Monday morning.
The first fire was reported Sunday before 8:30 p.m. near Memorial College Avenue. More fires were discovered near Parklane Drive, Halford Stadium, and North Indian Creek Drive.
Interim Fire Chief Melvin Carter said investigators looked at the patterns of the fires to begin their search.
They reviewed surveillance video that captured the suspect and found items used to start fires in his possession when they arrested him.
Wasim Majeed. Credit: DeKalb County Sheriff's Office
What we don't know:
While Majeed is in custody, county leaders said they are still working to learn what led him to set the fires.
It is currently unknown why the fires were set or if the suspect has any connection to the university campus.
FULL: DeKalb officials talk about string of fires
DeKalb County officials gathered Tuesday morning to talk about a string of arson fires on Monday night. A man has been arrested in connection to the fires.
By the numbers:
Although the fires did not cause property damage or injuries, they drained county resources.
According to Chief Carter, the response required six engine companies.
DeKalb officials release new info about arson investigation
Firefighters say they battled at least 15 fires near the Clarkston area, with crews responding before 11 p.m. to multiple locations including Memorial Drive, College Avenue, Park Lane Drive and North Indian Creek Drive. Annie Mapp reporting.
Each engine was staffed with three firefighters, and they were assisted by one battalion chief and two fire investigators.
What's next:
Majeed remained behind bars in DeKalb County as of Tuesday evening. He faces charges of arson in the third degree.