‘It’s Really Been Heartbreaking,’ Brooklyn Park Businesses Damaged by Arson Struggling to Recover

Sometime in the early morning hours of April 19, investigators say two people intentionally set fire to De Armour Nails, Kelly’s Diamond Realty and Top 2 Bottom Fashions. All of the businesses are located in a strip mall along Brookdale Drive and Xerxes Avenue in Brooklyn Park.

Nearly two months after that incident, the businesses are still covered with plywood.

“It’s really been heartbreaking,” said Letia Blade, owner of Top 2 Bottom Fashions.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives released surveillance videos Wednesday showing two people with containers dousing the businesses with a liquid before fires start.

Photo of arsonist inside the Top 2 Bottom Fashions in Brooklyn Park.

According to fire investigators, things could have been worse had it not been for the building’s sprinkler system that helped keep the flames under control.

But in the case of Top 2 Bottom clothing, the fire couldn’t have come at a worse time.  

“Coming off of a pandemic last year, this would be my busy season for weddings and proms,” said Blade. “So I kind of miss all of that again, not able to service my customers at this time.”

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help Top 2 Bottom recover.

The ATF is also offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the identification and prosecution of the two people responsible.

If you have information about this incident, you can call 1-888-283-8477, email ATFTips@atf.gov or submit information anonymously via www.reportit.com.

Brooklyn Park