Deputies suspect arson in business explosion

ROCKDALE COUNTY, Ga - Rockdale County deputies suspect a fire and explosion at a local business may have been intentionally set. 

Deputies believe someone may have started the fire at Classic Concepts Collision & Restoration that engulfed most of the building. Surveillance from neighboring business Pawn Depot captured most of the ordeal, and a car speeding away from the scene.

"When we got here, it was a terrible sight," said David Pirtle, who owns the business with his brother. 

Pirtle said estimates believe the damage could be up to $500,000. 

Deputies said a fire at the same business a month ago was also possibly intentionally set. Investigators said someone smashed through the business and tried to start a fire; Pirtle said there was not much damage from that attempt. 

We don't understand why someone would take the time out to put us out of business," Pirtle said. "No words can explain how hurtful this is," he said. 

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers of Greater Atlanta, or the Rockdale County Sheriff's Office.