Clayton police search for arsonist

The most recent fire was at 12 Cameo Court on Tuesday. The home, which was under construction and nearing completion, has never been occupied. The house was previously damaged in a fire on Oct. 31.

Clayton police said it and a similar unoccupied home were burned in simultaneous intentionally set fires on Halloween. Capt. Jon Gerrell said the fires in October and on Tuesday were set in somewhat the same manner.

“They’re in an isolated area of the subdivision, just off the road. There are no other houses out there at this time that are under construction, except these two that were set on fire,” Gerrell said.

The homes are tucked behind a row of trees off Glen Laurel Road, across from a thriving golf community.

“We’ve done door-to-door neighborhood canvassing. We’ve interviewed lots of people. We’ve done checkpoints, fliers,” Gerrell said.

The State Bureau of Investigation is assisting with the investigation. They have also brought in dogs to search for accelerants.

The homes were built by Bidco Building and Development. Neither building was sold.

“The developers have helped us out greatly. We don’t have any reason to believe or suspect that they have any involvement at this time,” Gerrell said.

There is a $2,500 reward for information leading to an arrest. Anyone with information is asked to call Clayton Police at 919-553-4611 or Crime Stoppers at 359-TIPZ (8479). Crime Stoppers offers a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest. Callers may remain confidential.