Maryland Man Arrested for Arson at Domino's After Reported Break-Ins

A Maryland man, George W. Cook, has been arrested and charged with arson, malicious burning, and other offenses after he allegedly set fire to a Domino's store in Westminster, Maryland, on Saturday morning. The incident occurred after a witness observed Cook breaking into vehicles at a nearby auto repair shop.

George W. Cook, a 59-year-old Maryland resident, faces charges of second-degree arson, first- and second-degree malicious burning, malicious destruction of property over $1,000, rogue and vagabond, and theft under $100.

Maryland Man Arrested for Arson at Domino's After Reported Break-Ins

According to the Office of the State Fire Marshal, Cook ignited a fire at the back of the Domino's store located on the 400 block of Baltimore Blvd. in Westminster on Saturday, August 4th, at approximately 6:30 a.m. Firefighters from Westminster and surrounding departments swiftly extinguished the blaze within minutes.

An investigation into the fire's origin revealed a witness account linking Cook to the incident. The witness had observed Cook breaking into vehicles at Superior Car Care on Manchester Ave., which is located near the Domino's store.

Maryland Man Arrested for Arson at Domino's After Reported Break-Ins

A trooper assisting with the investigation apprehended Cook after locating him entering a vehicle. Cook's arrest record revealed previous charges by Westminster Police related to setting small fires within the city limits. Notably, these fires shared similarities with the Domino's fire, involving the use of feces placed in bags or boxes and subsequently ignited.

Upon further investigation, a Domino's manager recalled an earlier encounter with Cook during the week. The manager stated that Cook had entered the store, became belligerent, and overturned a trash can when denied free food.

Maryland Man Arrested for Arson at Domino's After Reported Break-Ins

Cook was detained at Carroll County Detention Center without bond pending his trial. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of reporting suspicious activity to authorities, as prompt action can help prevent or mitigate incidents of arson and other crimes.