Arson investigation continues at known Tampa "drug house"

TAMPA - The investigation into an early morning house fire is still ongoing, according to Tampa Fire authorities.

According to Debra Warshefski with the fire department, the fire has been deemed arson. 

Her agency is working in tandem with Tampa Police in hopes of figuring out who is responsible for lighting the house at 4107 North 30th Street on fire around 3:30 Monday morning.

"There were people in and out of the homes over a period of time," says Warshefski. 

"I know there have been people in here and they weren't necessarily supposed to be."

The owner of the house and his daughter both were on site surveying the damage Monday. 

Warshefski says from what her agency has gathered, there is at least $7,000 worth of damage in the small, two-bedroom house.  

But there is a slight twist. 

As the arson investigation continues, neighbors, as well as the property owner, want to know why there were people in the house to begin with. 

Carmen Perca, the property owner's daughter, says she knows there has been prostitution, drugs and other illegal activity going on at the home. 

Tampa Police say they in fact have records of drug use at the home, but nothing on prostitution.  T

They have even made drug-related arrest, as recently as just two weeks ago.

At this time, the arson is still under investigation, as they are trying to find the suspect.