Police search for suspect after $1M arson destroys Gastonia Dollar Tree

GASTONIA, N.C. – Authorities are searching for an arsonist who caused an estimated $1 million in damages after intentionally setting fire to a Dollar Tree store.

The Gastonia Police Department released surveillance images of a suspect believed to be responsible for the July 5 blaze on South York Road.

The fire completely destroyed the building, according to police. Firefighters battled the blaze for hours, forcing officials to shut down a section of U.S. Route 321 while crews worked to contain the fire and investigators processed the scene. No injuries were reported.

A substantial cash reward is being offered for information that leads to the identification and arrest of the suspect.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective J. Beaver at the Gastonia Police Department at 704-866-6702. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers of Gaston County at 704-861-8000.