HENRY COUNTY, Va. (rbs news now) — Authorities are asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect in an arson investigation after a vehicle was set on fire early Wednesday morning at the Leatherwood Crossing shopping center parking lot.

Emergency crews responded shortly before 3 a.m. on May 6 to the Food Lion parking lot at 8500 A.L. Philpott Highway for a reported vehicle fire involving a Mercedes-Benz sedan.

In a Thursday social media post, the Henry County Sheriff’s Office said investigators are now actively seeking the person responsible.

Authorities said that the suspect was injured during the incident.

“Unfortunately for this criminal, the incident did not go exactly as planned because during the commission of the crime, the suspect also managed to set himself on fire,” the sheriff’s office said. “Yes, it’s all on video.”

The sheriff’s office said the suspect may have visible burn injuries.

“If you know someone who suddenly showed up with unexplained burns, singed eyebrows, missing arm hair, or who may smell suspiciously like burnt gasoline and poor decisions, we would appreciate your help identifying him,” the statement said.

Investigators are asking anyone with information to contact Investigator Elgin or the Henry County Sheriff’s Office at 276-638-8751, or Martinsville-Henry County Crime Stoppers at 276-632-7463.

Tips may remain anonymous and could be eligible for a cash reward.

“Remember: Crime doesn’t pay and apparently neither does fire safety for this suspect,” the sheriff’s office added.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Copyright 2026 by Romero Broadcasting System, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, rewritten, or redistributed.

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ORIGINAL STORY — May 6

HENRY COUNTY, Va. (rbs news now) — Authorities are investigating an early morning vehicle fire at the Leatherwood Crossing shopping center that officials say was intentionally set.

Emergency crews were dispatched shortly before 3 a.m. Wednesday to the Food Lion parking lot at 8500 A.L. Philpott Highway for a report of a vehicle fire involving a Mercedes-Benz sedan.

The Dyers Store Volunteer Fire Department, the Henry County Department of Public Safety, the Henry County Sheriff’s Office, and the Virginia State Police responded to the scene.

Henry County Fire Marshal Kiah Cooper confirmed to rbs news now that the fire has been ruled arson.

“I can confirm that it was arson and the Fire Marshal’s Office along with the HCSO are investigating the incident,” Cooper said.

No injuries were reported.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact Crime Stoppers at 276-638-8751.

Copyright 2026 by Romero Broadcasting System, LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, rewritten, or redistributed.