UMATILLA, Fla. — Five separate fires that broke out in Lake County over the weekend are being investigated as arson.

  • Several fires that broke out over weekend called suspicious
  • Arson investigators offering cash reward in Umatilla fire
  • Man seen on surveillance video placing object against shed

The fires were all found in and around Umatilla in a 48-hour period.

On Wilson Parish Road in Umatilla, a garage and car inside were gutted by a fire early Monday morning. Firefighters were able to save just more than half of the structure.

Sharon Duncan was the lifelong resident of the home, where crime scene tape and a notice was posted Monday to indicate that it was officially an arson scene.

"I think it’s got everyone on edge wondering what's next, what's going to happen next," Duncan said Monday.

A cash reward was being offered for information in the case.

The county and state Fire Marshals, as well as Umatilla Police, are investigating. Marion County, Eustis, Lake County EMS, and Umatilla fire crews responded.

Just 8 minutes away from the Wilson Parish Road fire, a pole barn burned behind a house. The owner, who didn't want to give his name, said the fire broke out at about 5:30 a.m. and burned a newer-model truck.

Back in Umatilla, investigators think someone tried to light a shed at the Old Crow Bar-b-que on fire. It was spared major damage.

The person responsible was caught on surveillance video entering the area and placing a wrapped object against the shed. It can be seen catching fire a few seconds later, though the fire went out.

It's unknown right now whether all five fires are related. County and state and Fire Marshals continue to investigate.