Deadly fire intentionally set, investigators say

Investigators have determined that a fire at an apartment building at 203 S. Pacific St., was intentionally set.

The blaze, which occurred around 3;30 a.m. Tuesday, claimed the life of George E. Robinson, 42, of Cape Girardeau.

The cause of death was ruled as smoke inhalation, said Cape Girardeau County Coroner John Clifton.

Robinson lived alone, according to neighbor Bob Tatro, another tenant in the Pacific Street building.

Tatro said he was unsure what Robinson had done for a living but that he had just gotten a better job offer and was optimistic about it.

Two additional fires were set shortly after the Pacific Street fire, said Sgt. Barry Hovis, spokesman for the police department.

The second fire was reported around 4:15 a.m. at 1015 Bloomfield St. The third fire occurred a half-hour later at 511 S. Ellis St.