Nearly $1 million in classic cars damaged in fire

Ted Vernon Classic Cars owners believe recently fired employee may be to blame

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – A commercial fire destroyed nearly two dozen cars at a business in northwest Miami-Dade County early Thursday morning, causing nearly $1 million in damage. 

The fire happened at Ted Vernon Classic Cars located at Northwest Seventh Avenue and Northwest 83rd Street. 

Police said the the fire started about 4 a.m. The business was closed during the time of the fire.

Firefighters were called and took about an hour to extinguish the flames.

Business owners Ted and Robin Vernon told Local 10's Roger Lohse they believe the fire was intentionally set, and Robin Vernon said a recently fired employee may be to blame.

Arson investigators were also called to the scene. They also believe the fire was intentionally set because of the fact that there were separate fires throughout the property.

"Vehicles in warehouse, outside of warehouse, storage area -- just numerous areas where we're pointing our fingers at right now," Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Ray Jadallah said.

Cars both inside and outside of the business were damaged. 

Nobody was hurt in the fire.