Residents wonder why cars burned

State Fire Marshal offering $5K reward for information leading to arrest

NASSAU COUNTY, Fla. – Days after several cars were set on fire in a string of car arsons at a Hilliard apartment complex, residents are left wondering why.

"It was devastating," said a woman named Brittani, whose care was set on fire at the Eastwood Oaks apartment complex. "People work so hard for their things, and just, people just destroy stuff for no reason."

Brittani's Dodge Intrepid caught fire after the car next to hers went up in flames. Eight cases have been reported in just five days. So far, there are no leads on who is responsible.

IMAGES: At least 8 vehicles burned over 3 nights

Several of the residents said the apartment complex does not have security cameras. They say they do not blame the complex for what happened, but they don't feel as safe as they used to.

The latest incident happened around 2 a.m. Sunday, where at least five cars went up in flames. Last Wednesday, police said someone set fire to three vehicles.

Cheryl Sallaz says for the first time ever, her feeling of security is gone.

"You know, we're just relaxed around here. And now since this happened, it does, it makes everybody aware," she said. "And now we need to lock our vehicles and be aware of what's around us as to what's going on."

A $5,000 reward is being offered for any information leading to an arrest. Channel 4 crime and safety analyst Ken Jefferson says authorities need the public's help.

"They depend on independent witnesses," he said. "They depend on people who have information who can help rid the streets of these types of people."

Meanwhile, residents are left living in fear, knowing the arsonist could strike again.

"You probably don't even know me," Brittani said. "You don't even know whose car you set on fire. Just doesn't make any sense."

Anyone with information about the fires is asked to call the Nassau County Sheriff's Office at 904-225-5174 or the State Fire Marshal at 877-NO-ARSON.