NEW BEDFORD - Three cars were apparently intentionally set on fire in New Bedford early Thursday morning, with another car fire reported earlier this week.

New Bedford Police say between 1:33 and 2:30 a.m. Thursday, police and fire personnel responded to three vehicle fires at Sawyer and Myrtle Streets, Cedar Grove and County Streets, and Adams and Myrtle Streets.

First responders were also called to a car fire Tuesday morning at 108 Clark Street at 3:08 a.m.

All four car fires were reported within half a mile of each other near the I-195 overpass between County and Mount Pleasant Streets.

New Bedford Fire Chief Michael Gomes says in addition to the vicinity, all of the vehicles were unoccupied, furthering suspicions. "Generally, things don't burst into flames on their own. When the vehicle is turned off, the electrical system is generally in a 'shut off' condition," said Gomes. "Typically, when a vehicle malfunctions, we'll find a fire under the hood. I believe, in all these cases the point of origin appeared to be in the passenger compartment."

Gomes said all four cars were deemed a total loss due to substantial fire and smoke damage.

New Bedford Police and Fire Departments are investigating the fires as suspicious in nature.

Anyone with information is asked to call New Bedford Police at 508-991-6350, or the anonymous tip line at 508-992-7463, or email tip@newbedfordpd.com.

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