Copycat Arsonist In Queens Arrested – NYPD Still Looking For Man Who Set Jewish Homes On Fire

An arsonist in Queens has been arrested, while a much bigger arsonist is still being sought by the NYPD.

36-year-old Samer Shuaib of Fleet Street was taken into custody for starting rubbish fires in Queens.

On Wednesday, December 9, 2015, between the hours of 11:00PM and midnight, the suspect set the rubbish on fire at the following locations:

1) Side of 69-02 Austin Street
2) Opposite 69-30 Austin Street
3) Front of 68-40 Austin Street

There were no injuries reported in any of the incidents.

The suspect was charged with Criminal Mischief 2 (3 counts), Arson 4 (3 counts), Reckless Endangerment 2 (3 counts).

Meanwhile, the NYPD is still looking for the suspect in a spree of arsons at homes in a New York City neighborhood populated by Bukharian Jews.

There have been seven arson cases so far, according to NYPD Chief of Detectives Robert Boyce. He said there is a pattern to these fires that started on Oct. 20, with the last occurring on Dec. 6.

According to Boyce, the suspect is using “combustible materials found at the scene.” Boyce said the investigation continues, and there are increased patrols in the area.

Most of the homes that were set on fire were under construction.

The community has raised $50,000 in award money for information leading to an arrest, and city officials have offered an additional $12,000.

Incident #1 – At approximately 7:30PM on Sunday, November 8, 2015 at 68-60 112 Street.
Incident #2 – At approximately 10:10PM on Sunday, November 15, 2015 at 112-35 69 Road.
Incident #3 – At approximately 6:30PM on Tuesday, November 17, 2015 at 108-43 66 Avenue.
Incident #4 – At approximately 11:12PM on Wednesday, November 25, 2015 at 108-43 67 Drive.
Incident #5 – At approximately 12:18AM on Sunday, December 6, 2015 at 112-35 69 Road.
Incident #6 – At approximately 10:27PM on Tuesday, October 20, 2015 at 70-35 113 Street.
Incident #7 – At approximately 8:00PM on Tuesday, November 10, 2015 at 108-13 67 Road.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto Crime Stoppers’ website at www.nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their tips to CRIMES (274637), then enter TIP577. All calls are strictly confidential.

The video below was taken on 69th Road near 112th Street and the Grand Central Parkway shortly after midnight Sunday. A few minutes after the clip was shot, a fire was set at a vacant building nearby.