An arson attack on a vape shop in Texas that severely damaged the establishment and endangered the life of one of the employees is being looked into by police and federal authorities. The event took place at Galena Park, Texas, on Saturday night.
Vape House was attacked by two masked individuals who fired firebombs, soon causing the store's carpet to catch fire. In an attempt to confine staff member Merlyn Rodrigues inside, the assailants set fire to and barred the front door as they fled. She had no choice but to kick open the door to get out of the flames.
Employee Merlyn Rodrigues told TV station FOX26, "Two men walk out, and they had gloves, he took something out of his back, and he threw it with a big impact." "Everywhere there was fire, the instant he dropped it."
Often referred to as Molotov cocktails, homemade firebombs are created with gasoline or other flammable liquid containers.
No merchandise or money was attempted to be taken by the attackers.
Sami Durrani, the proprietor of Vape House, stated he thought the arson was intentional but he had no idea who was responsible. Durrani claimed he could have to shut down the company after losing more than $100,000 on only items.
Durrani said, "You know, it's in bad shape," to KHOU-11 TV station. "I don't think I can afford to restart this business right now because it will cost a lot of money." My only question is, "Why did they do this?"
The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Harris County Fire Marshal, and local police are all looking into the attack. The event was captured on security footage, which investigators are now reviewing.
East of Houston proper, in Harris County, Texas, is where you'll find Galena Park. It is home to slightly less than 11,000 people.
