A deliberately set fire in a dumpster on the iconic Calle Ocho in Little Havana, Miami, has left two businesses without power, raising concerns among local merchants about the increasing insecurity in the area. The incident took place early Tuesday morning, around 5:51 a.m., when authorities received a call about a fire behind a picture frame store located at 729 Calle Ocho in southwest Miami.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a dumpster engulfed in flames. Although firefighters managed to extinguish the fire quickly, it had already disrupted the electrical system of two commercial establishments. "The firefighters and a neighbor called me because someone had set the dumpsters next to my business on fire. It destroyed all the electricity, and here I am," stated Cristina Coronel, owner of the affected store, in an interview with America Tevé. Coronel noted that such incidents are not uncommon, saying, "It's been two years since people who are homeless have been setting dumpsters on fire in the neighborhood."
Businesses Impacted by Power Outage
Arahí Millán, owner of Arahí’s Bakery, described how the flames and explosions also affected her business. "A homeless person set the recycling bin on fire in the back, and it ignited the rear of the adjacent business," she explained.
Security Footage Reveals Suspect
Security cameras at Arahí’s Bakery captured footage of the alleged arsonist, a homeless man seen wandering the area before the fire erupted. A surveillance video showed the man rummaging through the dumpster moments before the blaze started. Millán recounted that the individual even entered her café and was given a toast and coffee with milk by one of her customers. Witnesses reported that the man fled the scene after hearing the fire's explosions, which he presumably caused.
For Coronel and Millán, the power outages represent a significant loss during their busiest season. Belkis Peguero's mother, owner of Priscilla’s Beauty, another affected business, lamented the impact on their daily operations. "This is the busiest time of year for us," she noted, explaining that they haven't been able to serve clients since the blackout.
Call for Action Against Homelessness
Millán expressed her frustration over the lack of concrete measures to address the situation, urging action against the homeless population affecting small businesses. The fire has sparked a debate about security concerns and the growing presence of homeless individuals in Little Havana.
The Miami police have classified the incident as arson and are seeking community assistance to identify the suspect. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the Miami police or Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477. Meanwhile, the FBI is working to restore electricity to the affected areas.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Little Havana Fire Incident
What caused the power outage in Little Havana?
The power outage was caused by a deliberately set fire in a dumpster that affected the electrical system of two businesses on Calle Ocho.
How are local businesses affected by the fire?
The fire disrupted the power supply, leading to significant losses for businesses during their busiest season, as they were unable to serve customers due to the blackout.
What actions are being taken to address the incident?
The Miami police have categorized the event as arson and are seeking information from the community to identify the suspect, with the FBI aiding in restoring power to the impacted areas.