Officials Investigate Brooklyn Park Arson as Hate Crime

Anne Arundel County police and fire officials are asking for the public's help in the investigation of a New Year's morning Brooklyn Park arson they believe is a hate crime.

Firefighters responding to the fire in the 300 block of Church Street at about 4 a.m. Sunday reported seeing racially and sexually oriented slurs painted on the outside of the single-family home, according to a press release from fire officials.

Three residents—two elderly women and a 28-year-old black man who is their caregiver—were displaced from the home, which is estimated to have received $150,000 in damages.

Fire department investigators determined the fire was set intentionally.

According to the Maryland Gazette, the caregiver also was the victim of a hate crime in September.

, racially offensive graffiti was scratched into a man's car.

Officers spoke with a 28-year-old black man who said when he awoke and went out to his Lincoln Town Car, which was parked in Alley 37 overnight, he saw extensive damage to the interior and exterior of the vehicle, according to the September police press release.

Damage included racially offensive graffiti scratched into the hood and trunk, a smashed windshield and sunroof, slashed passenger side tires and interior upholstery and the car was keyed along the driver's side, police said. Items also were stolen from the trunk.

Officers searched the area but were unable to locate a suspect. At the time, police said it was unclear if it was a random or targeted act.

If you have information on the above incidents, please call, email or text your tip to Metro Crime Stoppers. A hotline is available 24 hours a day toll-free at 866-7LOCKUP or text "MCS" plus your message to CRIMES (274637).

Phone calls are not recorded and callers remain anonymous. You may also be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,000.