U.S. Marshals apprehended the man accused of intentionally setting fire to Roush’s Market early Saturday morning, leaving an Akron neighborhood of its only grocery shop.
According to a U.S. Marshals announcement, Manuel Eliezer Ramirez-Molina, 36, was detained on Monday for arson.
Akron Fire Department crews were dispatched at approximately 6:04 a.m. on Saturday to 554 W. Thornton St. for reports of heavy black smoke in the area.
Akron Fire got the fire under control, and there were no reported injuries.
The roof caved in, scattering charred debris across the parking lot. Flames erupted far above the building, destroying a tree and melting the fence next door.
Investigators determined that the fire was intentionally caused, and a warrant was issued for Ramirez-Molina on Sunday.
Members of the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) began looking for Ramirez-Molina, who U.S. Marshals said “was residing in this country illegally.”
Although a devastating crime, this criminal and his complete disregard for our community will not break the spirits of the Akron community. With this fugitive behind bars so quickly, the Akron community can focus on supporting this business and help rebuild this long-standing Akron establishment.
U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott
Only hours after the fugitive investigation began, police apprehended him just two blocks from the crime scene, near Howe Street and Leroy Avenue.
I’m grateful to the U.S. Marshals Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force for their swift work to safely apprehend the suspect in this devastating arson. Anyone who puts lives, businesses, and neighborhoods at risk through violent criminal acts must be held accountable. Our focus remains on supporting the Roush’s Market family and surrounding neighborhood. Akron has always responded to difficult moments by coming together, and I know this community will do the same again in this moment.
Akron Mayor Shammas Malik
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