Popeye's fire was arson

A fire at a Popeye's restaurant in North Austin on Tuesday morning was intentionally set, Austin Fire Department spokeswoman Michelle DeCrane said, and investigators are asking for the public's help in finding out more about who set the fire.

The blaze on West Anderson Lane started about 1:30 a.m. and caused $110,000 in damage. It was the latest in a string of restaurant fires in the past week, although DeCrane said the fires are not believed to be related.

Anyone with more information about the Popeye's fire can call the state's arson hot line at (877) 434-7345. The department is offering a reward of $1,000 for information pertinent to the case.