A suspicious fire that swept through a classic car shop featured in reality TV show South Beach Classics caused about $1 million in damages Thursday, officials said.
The fire broke out shortly before 4 a.m. at Ted Vernon Specialty Autos at 8301 Northwest 7th Avenue, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue officials said.
When firefighters responded, they saw heavy smoke and flames and found several cars on fire as well as part of a warehouse and mechanical garage, Battalion Chief Ray Jadallah said.
Firefighters were able to quickly get the fire under control. No injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire was unknown but Jadallah said it was suspicious.
"We're getting reports from the owners that some issues that maybe led up to the circumstance of the fire," Jadallah said. "That's part of the investigation. We're still in the preliminary phase of the investigation."
Co-owner Robin Vernon said she had no doubt it was arson, and believes it was a disgruntled former employee who was fired after it was discovered he provided false identification.
"I've been complaining to the Miami-Dade Police Department about somebody that threatened to burn down our places," she said.
Miami-Dade Police said detectives are investigating the fire.
Husband Ted Vernon said the cars were not insured.
"It's upsetting, but it's OK. We'll get through it," Robin Vernon said.
Check back with NBC 6 South Florida and NBC6.com for updates.
