Published: July 26, 2008 03:37 pm      

Three arrested for Aamco arson

Three San Antonio men have been arrested for arson and burglary of AAMCO Transmissions in San Marcos.

Jeremy G. Garcia, 19, Adam B. Rodriguez, 26, and Michael Rodriguez, 18, were apprehended just before 2 a.m. Friday when Police Officer Joyce Bender observed brake lights from a vehicle in front of AAMCO Transmissions at 1206 Highway 123.

As she approached the suspicious vehicle, a fire erupted inside the business. A man whose clothes were on fire ran outside. She detained the suspect at gunpoint and discovered two other suspects in a black Cadillac SUV.

The man whose clothes were on fire suffered minor injuries and was not hospitalized. All three remain at the Hays County Law Enforcement Center.

Fire Marshall Ken Bell said about 30 percent of the building was damaged.

Four fire engines responded to the flames. Investigators from San Marcos and San Antonio continue to probe the scene, which may be linked to a possible fire at another AAMCO shop located on Perrin Beittel Road in San Antonio.

“It’s definitely under investigation,” said Bell. “We’re still in the weeds.”

Five cars were in the facility when it caught fire and all sustained damage.

“It’s going to be a painful process (for car owners) to deal with the insurance companies,” said Bell.

The building was released back to the owner on Friday evening.