Authorities are investigating a fire that broke out at a Temple University dorm complex this morning -- the same site where a handful of arsons are under investigation.
The fire started in a trash container on the 14th floor of Morgan Hall on Temple University's North Philadelphia campus, according to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The 24-story tower is under construction at the corner of Broad Street and Cecil B. Moore Avenue.
Special Agent Steve Bartholomew says it's unclear if today's fire is suspicious, but it is similar to the others that were purposely set.
The ATF has been leading a multi-agency investigation into five arsons set over a two-day period at Morgan Hall.
Three fires were set on February 11 and two on February 12 at the construction site. All five fires were set in the tower on the 13th through 20th floors, the ATF said.
Two rewards are being offered to find those responsible. The ATF is offering up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those who set the fires.
Construction manager L.F. Driscoll is offering a second reward -- up to $10,000 -- bringing the total reward to $15,000, according to the ATF.
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Morgan Hall is a $216 million residence hall and dining complex that's set to house more than 1,200 students. The complex features a 24-floor tower and 10-floor building. Construction is expected to be finished this August, according to Temple University's website.
Philadelphia Police, Philadelphia Fire Department, Temple University Police and the ATF are investigating.
