CONROE, Texas – A three-alarm fire at a Montgomery County Garden Ridge store was intentionally set, investigators said Wednesday.
The fire at the store on Interstate 45 near state Highway 242 broke out about noon on Oct. 12. The 110,000-square foot store was destroyed. The fire caused about $15 million damage.
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"It's the first time it's happened in the city of Conroe, that I'm aware of," Deputy Fire Marshal Joe Craig said.
The Conroe Fire Marshal's Office asked the National Response Team of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to help them figure out what caused the fire.
Detectives declined to release details about the source of the fire citing an ongoing investigation.
"Between the forensic work that was completed and through witness accounts, (investigators) were able to piece together the information that the fire was intentionally set," ATF Special Agent Gary Orchowski said. "It was an extensive scene."
About three dozen customers were inside the store at the time of the fire.
One shopper said she heard a loud boom and the fire broke out. She said she thought it started near the middle of the store.
There were surveillance cameras inside the store, but investigators have not said what was captured on them.
Detectives said they do not believe the fire is connected to any others in the area.
Investigators have not released any information about possible suspects.
Anyone with information is asked to call Montgomery County Crime Stoppers at 800-392-STOP.