Three people died in a fire at Cheque Tires in South El Monte, Calif., over the weekend. According to authorities, a Molotov cocktail might have started the fire.
When firefighters arrived on the scene Saturday, at least one victim was still alive. Firefighters found the man behind heavily locked gates trying to escape the fire. Despite efforts by firefighters, the man couldn’t be rescued before he was overcome by his injuries, according to local media.
One firefighter was injured during the attempted rescue.
Later, two other bodies were discovered inside the shop. The names and ages of the victims haven’t been released.
Police and arson investigators are working to determine if the fire was set intentionally after a 911 caller reported seeing someone throw a Molotov cocktail into the shop. The witness reports seeing a white Chevrolet Silverado leaving the scene at the time of the fire, authorities said.
Detectives are urging anyone with information regarding the fire or the fatalities to call (323) 890-5500.