Thursday, February 23, 2012

Wichita fire and police investigators are working together to solve a second burglary that turned into arson case this week.

Police said someone broke into a home in the 1200 block of N. Northshore Wednesday night. A neighbor reported seeing smoke coming out of the home around 8:15 p.m.

The thief stole cash, jewelry, and small electronics. But before leaving, investigators said the suspect then set the house on fire.

"It certainly makes it more difficult to process a crime scene when there's a lot of smoke damage. The mentality or the thought behind why setting the fires, hasn't been determined yet," said Lt. Doug Nolte, Wichita Police.

Early Monday morning in the 2200 block of S. Stoneybrook, thieves broke into a home through the front door and took two large flat screen TVs, then set the house on fire.

Investigators are looking into whether the two incidents are related.

The residents were not at home when the incidents occurred. No one suffered injuries.

Police want help in solving the crimes. If you saw anything suspicious at either home, call 911.