One person taken into custody after suspicious fire

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. – A allegedly suspicious fire forced several people out of their homes early Friday morning in the county.

Stuart Lewis was returning home from work near the 1200 block of Lake Constance Dr. when he saw neighbors being evacuated and one home on fire. The St. Louis Regional Bomb and Arson Unit was called to the scene. FOX 2 is told they have taken one suspect into custody.

Lewis says some thought it was a bomb threat.

“I never heard of this happening in a residential area—I’ve heard of it happening in businesses, schools, public areas, but never a residential neighborhood. So that was shocking,” he said. “I’m surprised at the hazardous materials, not surprised at the something illegal.”

Police say they discovered an unidentified collection of chemicals inside the residence but did not elaborate. Those materials have been taken for testing.

There were no injuries reported, according to police. The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information is requested to contact the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-259-8210.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.