PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Authorities in St. Helens are investigating a string of fires believed to be arson.
Chief Steve Salle says at least eight blazes were set Monday morning.
Police also are looking at vandalism that occurred in the same area and time frame, between 3 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. in a one-mile radius near U.S. 30.
The fires involved cars, a motorcycle, a boat and a Church of Christ. Police say vandals also broke into two businesses and tried to break down a door with lawn furniture.
Salle says police believe the crimes are related.
The spree mostly caused minor damage, except at the church, which Salle says was severely damaged.
