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Police investigate arson at Chabad of Charlotte County in Punta Gorda

The Punta Gorda Police Department said circumstances and evidence at the scene led them to investigate the Friday night fire at the West Henry Street building as an arson.
Chabad of Charlotte County arson investigation
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UPDATE 11:07 a.m.:

The Punta Gorda Police Department told Fox 4 that the damage is mostly contained to one room in the building.

Fox 4 Community Correspondent Hunter Walterman is at the scene and found the front door shattered. To the right of the door is a "J" spray painted on the wall in black.

Arson investigation in Charlotte County

Police tell Walterman the fire is being investigated as an arson.

Officers are still at the scene and in the area investigating at this time.

ORIGINAL REPORTING:

Police are investigating a fire at the Chabad of Charlotte County as a criminal act after the building was damaged Friday night.

The Punta Gorda Police and Fire Departments responded to reports of a structure fire on West Henry Street late Friday evening.

"Due to circumstances and evidence located at the scene, the police department is investigating the fire as criminal in nature," police said in a statement.

Chabad of Charlotte County

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are asking anyone with information about the fire to contact the Punta Gorda Police Department at (941) 639-4111.

No additional details about the extent of the damage or potential injuries have been released.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

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Alex Orenczuk

Alex Orenczuk