Family in financial trouble after arsonists torched their business in South Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES – On August 2, in the early morning hours, around 5 a.m., a security camera captured two men on bicycles engaging in suspicious activity. They were seen throwing what appeared to be a towel over the gate of Vermont Tires and Brother Auto Repair in South Los Angeles.

Moments later, the businesses were engulfed in flames.

Mirca Garcia, whose family owns Vermont Tires, described the scene.

“Our tires, our inventory and our machinery were all destroyed,” Garcia said.

The fire destroyed Vermont Tires and Brother Auto Repair, both businesses located in the 6900 block of South Vermont Avenue. The tragedy is especially painful for Mirca, whose late mother helped build the tire shop alongside her father.

“This loss is deeply personal,” Garcia said. “My parents built this store together. It meant a lot to them.”

Both businesses were uninsured and damage is estimated at thousands of dollars. To help with repairs and rebuilding, Mirca has set up a GoFundMe account. She is also asking for the public’s help in identifying the men responsible for this devastating act of arson.

If you have any information that could help identify the suspects, please contact the LAPD. Your help is critical in bringing those responsible to justice.

Those wishing to help the family can click here for more information.