Investigators probe early morning fire

Arson investigators are looking into an early Friday arson near the intersection of West 19th and Washington streets, a block from Main Street in the Hough neighborhood.

Two suspects were reportedly spotted by neighbors putting cloth inside the gas tank of a white Ford F-250 and setting it aflame.

The small fire caused little damage, as flames extended outward about 18 inches.

Another vehicle’s gas cap was also tampered with.

Witnesses told police they saw the suspects fleeing the scene. The suspects had not been identified, and descriptions were not available.

Members of the Fire Marshal’s Office were called on to investigate. The small fire was reported at about 4:20 a.m.

The case is being investigated by an arson unit staffed by members of the Vancouver police and fire departments.

A police officer was first to arrive on scene and used a dry chemical powder to put the small blaze out.

There were no injuries reported. The truck incurred an estimated $500 damage, a fire department official said.