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Blaze That Injured 7 Firefighters Was Arson

RIVERDALE, Md. (WJZ) -- A fire sent seven Maryland firefighters to the hospital and now we know that fire was set on purpose. Prince George's County authorities say the arsonists are still on the loose.

Kai Jackson has more on the investigation and the road to recovery for those firefighters.

As this news of arson is announced, authorities are urging whomever is responsible to surrender to police.

A raging fire in a vacant house on Feb. 24 in Riverdale sent seven firefighters to the hospital. Now an investigation reveals that fire was deliberately set.

"I want to say to those responsible that you can be assured that you will be apprehended," said Prince George's County State's Attorney Angela Alsobrooks.

While investigating the Friday fire, authorities determined just weeks before someone set a fire in the house next door. The flames died out before anyone noticed. Both houses are vacant and both fires were set in the basement.

"The inspectors had come by; they put a condemned sign on the house," said neighbor Gary Branch.

Authorities say whipping winds caused a blowtorch effect in Friday's fire.

"Yes, very nervous. I mean, it's like, right there, you know? Too close to home," said Tammy Earnest.

Five of the firefighters have been released from the hospital and one of the most seriously injured, Ethan Sorrell, was released Tuesday night. Kevin O'Toole is still hospitalized in critical condition with second- and third-degree burns.

Authorities say the suspects---be they adults or children---will be prosecuted.

"The challenge for kids is they don't look at it as a crime, they look at it as fun," said Prince George's County Fire Chief Marc Bashoor.

One resident says he recalls a similar arson in the neighborhood two years ago. It's unclear at this time if there's a connection.

If you have information, please call police.

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