KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — The Knox County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help locating a vehicle believed to be connected to an intentionally set fire at a West Knoxville apartment complex.
Investigators have issued a Be On the Lookout (BOLO) alert for a 2015 Cadillac displaying a University of Tennessee Power T decal and believed to be occupied by a white male. Authorities say the vehicle may be connected to a fire reported Wednesday afternoon at Walker Springs Apartments on Walker Springs Road.
According to the sheriff’s office, deputies responded to the apartment complex shortly after 1 p.m. after receiving reports of a structure fire. When first responders arrived, smoke was visible, and the building was evacuated as a precaution while firefighters worked to contain the blaze.
Rural Metro Fire crews found a laundry room inside one apartment on fire and were able to quickly extinguish the flames before they spread further through the building. No injuries were reported.
Investigators later determined the fire had been intentionally set. The Knox County Sheriff’s Office said its preliminary investigation indicates the incident stemmed from a domestic dispute earlier in the day.
While fire damage was largely confined to the laundry room of a single apartment, smoke affected several neighboring residences. Officials said a total of eight apartments sustained some level of smoke damage. Most residents were allowed to return home after the scene was cleared.
Vehicle Sought by Investigators
Authorities have not released additional information about the person believed to be associated with the Cadillac, but investigators are urging anyone who sees the vehicle or has information about its whereabouts to contact law enforcement.
The sheriff’s office described the vehicle as:
- A 2015 Cadillac
- Displaying a University of Tennessee Power T
- Believed to be occupied by a white male
Investigation Ongoing
The Knox County Sheriff’s Office and fire investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Authorities say additional information will be released as it becomes available.
Anyone with information about the Cadillac or the fire investigation is encouraged to contact the Knox County Sheriff’s Office.
