Suspicious structure fire in Mexico, Missouri

On Thursday, Mexico authorities were called to the 1400 block of North Western Street regarding a building on fire. The barn had flames coming from the roof. The fire was extinguished, but the building and the contents inside were completely destroyed.

An electrical line broke from a pole during the attempt to extinguish the fire, and fell into the roadway, causing minor damage to a fire engine and patrol car. There were no injuries from the incident.

The cause of the fire was determined to be suspicious.

Earlier in the week, officers had arrested David N. Tate, 22, of Mexico, while he was staying in that particular barn. As officers were attempting to locate Tate to talk about the fire, it was reported that he had entered a house in the 1400 block of North Washington and taken some food. Tate left prior to officer arrival. Authorities later found Tate in the 1000 block of North Clark after he was involved in a disturbance.

Tate was taken to the Audrain County Jail for arson, burglary, stealing under $500 and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Photo Credit: Mexico MO Department of Public Safety Facebook