Chicago police investigate possible arson at South Side auto shop

CHICAGO - A fire broke out early Monday at an auto shop on the city’s South Side, damaging several vehicles but leaving no one injured, authorities said.

Auto shop fire

What we know:

Chicago police said officers responded around 12:24 a.m. to reports of a fire at Ray's Auto Sales and Service, located at 1251 East 95th Street.

When they arrived, crews with the Chicago Fire Department were already on scene working to extinguish flames that had spread to at least eight vehicles.

"I don't have no idea who would have done this", said property owner Lee Smith.

About a dozen vehicles were torched, and it's the second time cars have been set ablaze there in 30 days, Smith said.

"They first burned a tow truck up, then they burned cars last night," said Smith.

The vehicles are now charred, many of which were already totaled from crashes.

Smith has owned the property for 40 plus years, but he rents the building and an adjacent lot to another man who runs the repair shop.

The shop remained closed for business Monday as surveillance footage is being assessed. Smith says someone was certainly trying to send a clear message.

What's next:

Chicago police are investigating this as a possible arson. There were no injuries.