PINEVILLE, N.C. — Three fires set at an apartment complex in Pineville have been linked to arson.
The fires happened at The Brook apartment complex on Oakbrook Drive, according to the Pineville Police Department. The fires happened on Oct. 15, Nov. 15, and Monday morning. No injuries were reported in any of the fires.
The most recent one was at the leasing office.
Several families were displaced and the fires caused substantial damage at the complex. Pineville Police and the Mecklenburg County Fire Marshal's Office have connected all three fires and labeled them arson.
Cell phone video captured moments when one building was in flames in October.
“I looked out my window and this whole area was burning down,” said Indeyah Aery, who lives at the complex. “They were trying to get people out of their house. They were trying to break in from over here to see if people were still in their house -- one man climbed up.”
Staff with the property said cameras are being set up in strategic places and security will be on site 24/7.
Residents told WCNC Charlotte they agreed with the move.
“When the fire happened, no security, no camera,” said Violeta. “I need a camera and I need security.”
“They should have been did that,” said Aery. “People always wait for something to happen before they take action, it should have been like that.”
Meanwhile, the search continues for the individual or individuals responsible. With no arrest and a potential threat still around, residents say they are sleeping uneasily.
“Why are we putting other people’s lives in danger,” said Aery. “No one wants to be hurt or even worse.”
No further information is available. No suspects have been named at this time.
The Brook Apartments shared the following statement with WCNC Charlotte late Tuesday evening:
The safety of residents and employees at The Brook Apartments remains our highest priority. Recently, the property experienced multiple fire-related incidents, two of which have been confirmed by local authorities as intentionally started fires, while another remains under investigation. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported. In response, we are taking immediate action to promote the safety of our residents and employees and prevent further loss. We will continue working closely with the fire and police departments as they carry out their investigations, and will maintain our focus on prioritizing the security of our community. We urge anyone who may have information regarding the incidents to contact the Pineville Police Department.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Pineville Police Department at 704-889-2231.
Contact Jesse Pierre at jpierrepet@wcnc.com or follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.