Frank Torres Appeals for Help After His Van is Set on Fire in San Antonio; Arsonists Caught on Camera

SAN ANTONIO, TX — The San Antonio community is rallying around Frank Torres, a local resident who is now seeking the public’s help after his work van was set on fire in a brazen act of arson. Torres, who woke up to the smell of smoke early on the morning of March 29, 2025, quickly realized that his vehicle was engulfed in flames outside his Lavaca neighborhood home. He is now urging anyone with information to come forward as investigators work to identify the individuals responsible for the crime.

The Shocking Discovery:

Torres, who was asleep in his home with his children at the time, was jolted awake by the overpowering smell of something burning. When he looked outside, he saw his van, which he relied on for his work, fully engulfed in flames. “We woke up to the smell of smoke, and when I looked out, my van was on fire,” Torres said. The fire quickly consumed the vehicle, and although no one was physically harmed, Torres expressed deep concern about the potential danger to his family.

Arson Caught on Camera:

Security cameras installed around Torres’ home captured two individuals walking up to his van around 3:30 a.m. on that fateful night. The footage shows one of the suspects lighting the van on fire, while the other stood nearby, possibly acting as a lookout. After igniting the flames, both individuals fled the scene on foot, disappearing into the darkness.

Torres, who relies on his van for his job, is devastated not only by the loss of his vehicle but also by the realization that the act could have endangered his children’s lives. “Had my kids been closer to the window or something, this could have turned into something much worse,” Torres said.

A Call for Help:

Now, with the arson investigation underway, Torres is asking for the community’s assistance. “I’m hoping that someone out there saw something or knows something. This wasn’t just an attack on my property—it was a potential danger to my family,” Torres stated in a plea for help. He hopes that by sharing the surveillance footage and speaking out, someone will come forward with crucial information.

The Community Responds:

The Lavaca neighborhood, where Torres resides, has rallied in support of the family. Local residents have expressed shock and outrage over the senseless act. Several neighbors have vowed to keep a closer watch on the area and are encouraging others to do the same. The neighborhood association has also extended support to Torres and his family, offering assistance as they cope with the aftermath.

Investigating Authorities:

The San Antonio Fire Department’s Arson Investigations Unit is leading the investigation into the fire. Authorities are reviewing the security footage and conducting a thorough search of the area in hopes of uncovering new leads. At this time, the motives behind the attack remain unclear, though the authorities are considering the possibility of a targeted act.

“We are doing everything we can to identify the suspects responsible for this crime,” said Officer Maria Vargas, spokesperson for the Arson Investigations Unit. “We’re asking anyone who may have seen anything unusual that night to come forward.”

How You Can Help:

Authorities are encouraging the public to share any information they may have regarding the incident. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the San Antonio Crime Stoppers hotline at 210-224-STOP (7867). The Arson Investigations Office can also be contacted directly at 210-207-7678.

Protecting Your Property:

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of home and property security. Neighbors have been urged to take precautions, such as installing surveillance cameras, enhancing outdoor lighting, and being vigilant about any suspicious activity in the area. Neighborhood watch programs have also been recommended to help improve community safety.

Conclusion:

While the damage to Frank Torres’ van is certainly a significant loss, the safety of his family remains the primary concern. The swift response of local authorities, along with the outpouring of support from the Lavaca community, highlights the strength of San Antonio’s collective spirit in the face of adversity. As the investigation continues, Torres remains hopeful that justice will be served, and those responsible for this reckless act will be held accountable.

For those with information, now is the time to speak out and help bring closure to this disturbing incident.