HIALEAH, FLA. (WSVN) - Authorities are investigating after a barbershop in Hialeah went up in flames, and police are looking into whether two men are responsible.
The blaze at 60 W 49th St. reportedly started at 3:40 a.m. on Friday.
Hialeah Fire Rescue officials said nearby businesses were also impacted by smoke emanating from the blaze.
According to police, they were told by eyewitnesses that two men were seen igniting the fire. Authorities have not yet confirmed that information.
However, surveillance video obtained by 7News from a smoke shop across the street appears to show two individuals setting the barbershop on fire and then fleeing.
Speaking in Spanish, Ariel, the owner of the barbershop, said the attack on his shop was unexpected.
“All I want to say is this is something I didn’t expect. I ask God for strength to get through this problem,” he said.
7News cameras captured the owner and others sifting through the charred remains of the business on Friday morning.
Those who work in the area said they’ve seen the surveillance video from cameras at the barbershop, and it shows the faces of the two men responsible.
Investigators advised the owner against releasing the video. However, the video from next door confirms the blaze was not an accident.
Still, the owner said he doesn’t suspect anyone in particular.
“We can’t suspect anyone at this time because, really, I don’t have a way to know the reality,” said Ariel. “This is being investigated and will be resolved by investigators.”
Fortunately, no one was inside the building at the time of the fire, and no injuries were reported.
The subjects are still on the loose. As of Friday afternoon, no arrest has been made.
Hialeah Police Department, Hialeah Fire Prevention Bureau and the State Fire Marshal’s Office continue to investigate.
If you have any information on this arson crime, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.
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