String of arson fires hit River Road businesses

EUGENE, Ore. - A series of suspicious fires broke out in the recycling bins of businesses on River Road early Monday morning.

Police suspect the same person might be responsible for the string of arson fires.

Officers were investigating a fire in the recycling bin at a Jackson's Gas Station; in the recycling bin for Shooters Pub and Grill and Don Juan's Mexican Food; and at a mobile home park down the street.

The third fire might not be releated, police said - but the gas station and restaurant fires are most likely linked.

"Both these were outside exterior fires and just the nature of the fire makes them suspicious," said Detective Steve Williams with the Eugene Police Department.

Both Shooters and Don Juan's are expected to be closed for a few days.

"I'm surprised shocked and it looks like we're going to be closed for a few days," said Dennis Short from Shooters Pub and Grill.

Police said surveillance camera footage will likely be a factor in helping to identify the suspect.