Rochester Fire Department Seeks Public Help to Identify Arson Suspect

Surveillance footage shows a suspect lighting multiple fires in downtown Rochester on January 10th.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Rochester Fire Department is asking the public for help in identifying a suspect who was caught on camera lighting several fires in downtown Rochester on January 10th. The fires, which included dumpster and mattress fires, occurred within a few hours of each other and do not appear to have targeted anyone specifically. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the suspect or the incidents to contact CrimeStoppers.

Why it matters

Arson is a serious crime that can quickly escalate and pose a significant threat to public safety. Identifying the suspect is crucial to preventing further incidents and holding the individual accountable for their actions. The Rochester community is concerned about the random nature of the fires and wants to ensure the safety of the downtown area.

The details

Surveillance footage shows the suspect opening dumpster lids on Pindle Alley, followed by fires breaking out shortly after. The suspect also lit a fire near Plymouth Avenue and set a port-a-potty on fire back on Pindle Alley. The fires were started using cardboard and other trash, and no accelerants have been found. While the fire department does not believe the suspect is an immediate threat, they are eager to identify him as arson is a serious crime that can quickly spiral out of control.

  • The fires occurred on January 10th between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.

The players

Rochester Fire Department

The local fire department that is leading the investigation into the arson incidents and urging the public to come forward with any information.

Rochester Police Department

Assisting the fire department in the investigation and search for the suspect.

Lt. Howard Villegas

The public information officer for the Rochester Fire Department who provided details about the incidents and the ongoing investigation.

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What they’re saying

“The suspect lit the first two fires of the day within minutes of each other. It doesn't seem like he was targeting anyone. It just seems to be, on its face, a random act of, you know, destruction. But whatever the motive may be, you never know where these things are going to head.”

— Lt. Howard Villegas, Public Information Officer, Rochester Fire Department (whec.com)

What’s next

The Rochester Fire Department is urging anyone with information about the suspect or the January 10th fires to contact CrimeStoppers at 585 423-9300. Authorities hope that by identifying the suspect, they can prevent further incidents and hold the individual accountable.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement to address random acts of arson, which can quickly escalate and pose a serious threat to public safety. The Rochester community is concerned about these incidents and is eager to assist in identifying the suspect to ensure the downtown area remains safe.