ALAMOSA -- Monday evening Alamosa Fire Department (AFD) responded to the 517 suite of a duplex on Eighth Street for reports of smoke coming from the residence. The investigation is ongoing and has been turned over to the Alamosa Police Department, but the AFD did confirm that the cause of the fire was arson.

The building is in Michael Melgares’ name but was unoccupied when the fire began. After an hour with the ladder, engine, and rescue truck, AFD was clear from the scene. Thanks to the fast response, smoke and heat damage were contained to the Northeast bedroom.