Fire truck racing to the emergency scene. File Photo

JUPITER, N.C. — Authorities in Buncombe County are searching for a suspect involved in a gas theft that led to a fire, damaging multiple vehicles at a tow yard in the Jupiter community.

The incident occurred around 4 a.m. on May 20, when surveillance footage captured an individual siphoning gasoline from vehicles on the lot. During the theft, a fire ignited, spreading quickly and damaging several vehicles.

The suspect fled the scene in what investigators described as a dark-colored pickup truck. No injuries were reported, but officials expressed concern about the individual’s condition due to the fire’s proximity.

Detectives from the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect. They have released no additional details about the vehicle or the amount of fuel stolen.

“Investigators with the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office say they’re concerned not only about the damage caused to the local business, but also about the suspect’s safety given the fire that erupted,” the department stated.

Investigation ongoing, public assistance requested

The fire has raised safety concerns among local law enforcement, who emphasized the risks associated with fuel theft.

Authorities have not confirmed whether the fire was accidental or the result of improper handling of equipment used during the siphoning.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Burns at 828-250-4460. No arrests have been made, and the case remains under active investigation.

Officials have not disclosed the estimated cost of the damage caused by the fire.

A gas theft gone wrong sparked a fire and left several vehicles burned in a Jupiter tow yard as detectives continue their search for the suspect.

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