Tybee Island Police investigating fire at bar as arson

TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) - The Tybee Island Police Department is investigating a possible arson at a local bar on Labor Day.

The Tybee Island Fire Department were called to the Sand Bar on Butler Avenue around 12:45 a.m. on Monday.

The Fire Department requested an Arson Investigator respond to the scene.

During the course of the investigation, the detective found probable cause to believe the fire was intentionally set.

Luckily, no one was hurt, but the incident is leaving folks on the island scratching their heads.

“It does hurt me that it’s the number one Bengals bar, according to their out front, that someone would want to burn that down in particular. It’s not a good thing to go out and be lighting stuff on fire,” said Tanner Rhymer.

“We’ve visited that establishment two or three times. Very nice. Good people. It’s a very fun place to be. I can’t believe anyone would do that,” said Mike Landower.

Especially on an island known to be quaint and quiet. Safety has never been an issue for Landower when he visits Tybee. and is concerned that’s something he might have to think about in the future.

“It’s not good. I mean, everyone comes here to have fun, have a good time and enjoy themselves, and to think that someone would stoop to that level, if that’s what they determine it is, it’s sad. Really sad.”

The owner of the Sand Bar didn’t want to talk today.

Anyone with information can contact Det. TJ LeGuin at 912.786.5600 or Georgia Arson Control at 1.800.282.5804.

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