Arson suspected in overnight St. Paul pawn shop fire
Firefighters outside of Max-It Pawn Shop in St. Paul on Friday, May 26, 2023. Credit: Jeff Ernewein/KSTP-TV
Authorities say a fire at a St. Paul pawn shop early Friday morning was intentionally set.
Crews were seen outside the Max-It Pawn Shop, located on University Avenue just off Snelling Avenue, at around 3 a.m. Smoke was seen in the area by a 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS photographer.
The St. Paul Fire Department says crews found several dumpsters on fire behind the business, two of which were completely engulfed by flames.
The fire then extended into the business through the rear overhead door.
The fire was eventually extinguished but the business had heavy smoke and soot damage, the department says.
Authorities believe the fire was intentionally set and are working with St. Paul police to investigate.