Small fire at Las Vegas family court building ruled arson

By Rich Coleman

Monday, Dec. 27, 2010 | 4:35 p.m.

A small fire today in a restroom at the Clark County Family Court complex near Bonanza Road and Pecos Road was ruled an arson, Las Vegas fire officials said.

The fire was discovered at 1:21 p.m. and extinguished by three court marshals using portable fire extinguishers. The three marshals were treated for minor smoke inhalation at the scene, fire department spokesman Tim Szymanski said.

The fire caused about $1,000 in damage to the restroom. Fire and rescue investigators along with court officials are investigating.

Fire officials also continued to investigate an arson that caused $100,000 in damage Sunday to the Community Counseling Center in the 1100 block of Almond Tree Lane, near Maryland Parkway and Sahara Avenue. No arrests have been made.

The fire was reported about 7:20 a.m. Sunday. Three offices in the counseling center sustained extensive damage, while damage also was done to the roof and attic. There was a smoke odor throughout the rest of the center, fire officials said.

A Metro officer on patrol in the area saw smoke coming from the counseling center and reported it. Firefighters found the building was locked and had to force their way in to put out the fire, Szymanski said.

Anyone with information is being asked to call Crime Stoppers at 385-5555.