Investigator says Cedar Rapids apartment fire is arson case

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa - The Cedar Rapids Fire Department now says an investigator has determined an apartment fire at Hawthorne Hills Apartments was deliberately set by an occupant.

Four people were taken to the hospital, one man with life-threatening injuries after firefighters carried him out of the burning building.

The Fire Department statement on Twitter says medical confidentiality laws prohibits them from elaborating at this time, but the investigation is continuing and charges are likely.

Firefighters found heavy flames and smoke inside a Cedar Rapids apartment building Thursday morning just after 8:30.

Spokesman Greg Buelow says the Hawthorne Hill Apartment complex at 2255 C Street SW in Cedar Rapids has extensive fire, smoke, and water damage. Photo by Cedar Rapids Fire Department.