Tampa fire investigators are looking into three fires they believe were intentionally set in the same neighborhood over the past six days. 

  • 3 recent Palmetto Street fires believed to be arson, officials say
  • Fires set at three homes on Palmetto Street within 6 days
  • Anyone with info asked to call 813-274-7000

The first fire, at 3903 W Palmetto Street, was set early Saturday morning, June 17, around 1:40 a.m., officials said. 

Fire crews said a 2002 Dodge Neon in the driveway was set on fire, causing damage estimated at half of the car's value. 

Officials said nearly 48 hours later, at 12:23 a.m. Monday, another fire was set at 3909 W Palmetto Street -- three doors down from the previous fire. 

Fire crews found a futon-style bed in flames against an exterior wall of the home. An 86-year-old woman lives in the home, but was able to escape safely with the help of her neighbors. 

Officials said the fire spread into the eaves and attic space of the home causing major damage estimated at $40,000. 

Friday morning around 2 a.m., fire crews responded to another house fire on Palmetto Street with the address of 2309 N Harold Avenue, an adjacent street. 

Officials said a trash can on the front porch was set on fire. The single-story masonry structure sustained minor fire, heat, and smoke damage. 

The home is believed to have been vacant at the time, officials said. 

There is currently no evidence that links all three fires but investigators do not consider them to be coincidental. 

Investigators have been in the neighborhood talking to residents to develop leads as well as locate any video of the incidents from neighbors or nearby businesses. 

Anyone with information is asked to call the Fire Marshall's Office at 813-274-7000.