Fire investigators: deadly apartment building fire was arson

Firefighters gather outside an Aurora apartment that went up in flames late on Aug. 6, 2012

AURORA, Colo. — Aurora fie investigators say someone intentionally started a fire at an apartment building that killed two people earlier this week.

There are reports there is a person of interest in the case

The 2-alarm fire started at about 11 p.m. on Monday, August 6. Witnesses told authorities a man with a gas can ran from the Fitz Apartments at 1747 Peoria St. shortly after the fire broke out.

There are reports there is a person of interest in the case. Police addressed that issue Friday evening.

“Early in this investigation detectives were made aware of a person that raised concern amongst neighbors and some believed he may have some involvement with the fire,” says Aurora Police spokeswoman Cassidee Carlson.

“Detectives have interviewed this person however not enough probable cause exists to make an arrest. As a result of this interview his mental health was a concern and he was referred to professionals for further evaluation.” 

The elderly couple who died lived on the fourth floor.

27 people were injured and 15 of those had to go to area hospitals. Most received injuries when they were forced to jump from windows. One woman broke both of her feet.

“I just saw the windows blow out and flames just appear out of no where,” resident Amber Donovan said.

Fire investigators turned the case over to the Aurora Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit Friday.