The Joplin Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire at TelePerformance 1110 E. 7th Suite 2 at 2:23 AM. The first unit arrived on scene at 2:27 AM and reported a one-story commercial strip mall with light smoke in the structure and heard an active fire alarm and witnessed water flow from the sprinkler system. Crews entered the structure and found multiple areas of fire that had already been extinguished by the sprinkler system. The crews did overhaul to the areas to ensure there were no extensions to other parts of the building and strip mall.
There were no injuries to civilians or firefighting crews.
The fire department responded with 6 apparatus and 14 personnel.
The fire department was assisted by Joplin Police Department and METS Ambulance Service.
The cause of the fire was determined to be arson due to evidence of forced entry, multiple areas of fire origin and other vandalism noted on scene.
For more information, contact the Joplin Fire Department at 623-0403 or 624-0820 ext 1300.