Late-Night Fire Breaks Out in Former Victorville Tax Office Building; Arson Suspected
VICTORVILLE, Calif. (VVNG.com) – A vacant commercial building, once known for its variety of businesses, including the respected America’s Affordable Tax Services, was engulfed in flames late Monday in what officials are suspecting as an intentional arson event.
The blaze broke out at approximately 8:50 p.m. at the structure located at 14425 Seventh Street. Firefighters from the Victorville Fire Department were met with heavy smoke and intense flames coming from the back of the building upon arrival.
Faced with intense fire, the incident was promptly escalated to a second alarm, signaling the need for additional firefighting units.
Responding effectively, crews from the San Bernardino County Fire Department and the Apple Valley Fire Protection District joined forces with local firefighters to combat the blaze.
The building, an 8900-square-foot property constructed in 1974, was found abandoned and boarded up prior to the incident, a stark contrast to its days as a hub for a hair salon, tax service office, tattoo parlor, music studio, and clothing store. The tax office within, once operated by Arnold “Hank” Perez, ceased operations following his untimely passing in a car crash in 2014. In tribute, a former employee subsequently inaugurated A-TAX PEREZ at the same location.
“We heard about the fire, but we are safe. We moved out of the building late last year to a new location in Hesperia,” shared Tina, a staff of A-TAX PEREZ. She expressed sorrow upon learning of the fire and reiterated cherished memories of the late Mr. Perez.
Deputies from the Victorville Police Department were also present to conduct traffic control efforts around the affected area.
The Victorville Fire Department and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, are seeking further information about the ongoing investigation into the suspected arson. Anyone with information may contact the Victorville Police Department at (760) 241-2911.
