Arson Determined to be Cause of Commercial Building Fire

Arson has been determined to be the cause of a fire at 1104 Highland Avenue in downtown Manhattan Beach the night of Saturday, Feb. 26. A joint police and fire investigation is underway and investigators are asking for the public's help with identifying anything that may be related to what started the fire.

Manhattan Beach Fireman Michael Murrey said that all accidental causes have been ruled out and an accelerant detection canine confirmed the presence of an accelerant.

The fire began at night in the dental office of Stephen Guidone and damaged the entire building, causing about $1 million in damage.

Guidone arrived at the scene later and told investigators that he couldn't think of anyone who would have cause to set fire to his office. 

The blaze displaced or closed 12 businesses, including the Koffee Kart restaurant. Guidone, who celebrated his 30th anniversary at the location in February, has temporarily moved his practice to El Segundo.

Contact the Manhattan Beach Fire/Arson Investigation Unit at 310-802-5203 if you have information, including photos or video, that might help them solve the crime.