Investigators suspect arson in small UBS blaze

Carson City Fire and Sheriff's Department investigators are looking into an attempted arson at the United Blood Services office on Winnie Lane.

A cleaning person on Sunday reported that the clinic doors were unlocked when she arrived about 5 p.m. and a "chemical odor" inside the building led her to a burnt roll of toilet paper on the floor in a back hallway, said Fire Investigator Duane Lemons. He said the odor was likely the lingering smell of smoke.

The roll was up against the wall and it appeared as if someone had intentionally tried to set the building on fire but the flames burned themselves out, he said.

It's unclear whether the clinic fire is related to a suspicious fire at a counseling center on Robinson Street early Sunday morning that destroyed the south end of the building, he said.

Anyone with information either fire is asked to call Detective Dave Legros at 887-2020 ext. 41404 or Secret Witness at 322-4900. Callers to Secret Witness can remain anonymous. Secret Witness offers rewards for information on any crimes in Carson City.

Contact reporter F.T. Norton at ftnorton@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1213.