Arson suspected in Rocky Mount duplex fire

Flames had fully engulfed two duplexes when firefighters arrived shortly after 3 a.m., police said. The fire also damaged nearby duplexes on Ravenwood Drive and 501 Starling Way before it was put out.

A firefighter told officers that he saw a man walk from behind the buildings toward the South Rocky Mount Community Center, police said. The man flicked a lighter in a cement trash can, starting a fire.

Officers searched the area but did not find any suspects.

All the duplexes were unoccupied. They are owned by Powell Construction.