To catch a fire bug

It looks like we have a serial arsonist -- or arsonists -- on our hands in Cape Girardeau.

Many of the 19 suspicious fires started since 2005 appear to be connected. A map of all of the suspicious fires reported the last two-plus years shows a disturbing cluster of dots in the south section of town.

Nine suspicious fires have been reported this year alone.

Firefighters fought another suspicious fire that destroyed a historic school house in Scott City late Wednesday.

Most of the fires have occurred in vacant houses, but recently the fires have been set at occupied buildings, including one that resulted in the death of George Robinson, 42.

The cowardly arsonist or arsonists aren't just starting fires. The crimes are spreading fear in the town as well.

We're confident that law enforcement, led by the major case squad, is doing everything possible to catch the criminal.

Investigators are asking for our help. Please report any suspicious activity to the police. CrimeStoppers of Southeast Missouri (332-0500) is offering a $6,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest. Calls to the CrimeStoppers telephone number are anonymous.