A man is accused of purposely setting the New Brite Spot Family Restaurant on fire in April. Ottawa Police Detective Corporal Matthew Najdanovich says 44-year old John F. Smith was arrested Thursday afternoon after a warrant for his arrest was put out that day. A witness allegedly saw Smith fleeing from the restaurant after the fire started. He was developed as a suspect after Ottawa Police, numerous fire department and the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office found evidence the fire wasn’t accidental. Smith was charged with arson and given a $100,000 bond. Ottawa Police also want to thank the people who turned in home video surveillance from the night. The video footage was crucial in the investigation.
Ottawa Police say April restuarant fire wasn’t accidental; suspect in custody
The New Brite Spot restaurant fire April 15-16, 2023. Photo from Kyle Dooley.