By Paul Walsh
The Star Tribune
MINNEAPOLIS — Three cases of suspected arson have been reported this week in different neighborhoods of Minneapolis, one involving the residence of a high-profile Minnesota Vikings executive.
The home of Lester Bagley, a Vikings vice president and the team’s chief campaigner during its mission for a new stadium, was targeted Tuesday morning, according to fire officials. Police say the incident in the 1800 block of Irving Avenue S. involved the garage.
“By all appearances, the arson was a random act,” said Bagley, putting aside the possibility that he was specifically targeted by whoever tried to set a vehicle on fire. “I am thankful that no one was hurt.”
The other suspicious fires were both early Sunday: one at a home in the 2500 block of Humboldt Avenue N. and the other at an apartment in the 3100 block of 22nd Avenue S.
Assistant Fire Chief Cherie Penn said Thursday that she has no information indicating that the three cases are related. No injuries have been reported, and no arrests have been announced.
Authorities say that anyone with information about any of these cases should call the arson hot line at 1-800-723-2020. Rewards of up to $5,000 are being offered for tips that lead to the identity of suspects.
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