MELBOURNE, Fla. — Authorities are investigating an arson case after a man reportedly set a fire inside an Aldi supermarket under construction in Melbourne. Police and fire officials responded to the scene Saturday morning, May 25, after receiving a report of suspicious activity at the site.

According to the Melbourne Police Department, the incident took place around 10:40 a.m. in the 900 block of East Eau Gallie Boulevard, where a new Aldi store is currently being built. A construction worker at the site called 911 to alert authorities about an unauthorized individual causing damage inside the building.

"There was an unidentified man inside the site causing damage," said Lt. Amy Perez, spokesperson for the Melbourne Police Department.

Firefighters Contain Blaze, Arson Investigation Underway

When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered the building filled with smoke from a fire that had been set inside. The Melbourne Fire Department quickly responded and was able to contain the blaze before it caused significant structural damage.

"Officers arrived at the construction site and found smoke in the building from an apparent fire," Lt. Perez stated. "Melbourne Fire Department crews arrived and contained the blaze."

No injuries were reported, but the building was temporarily evacuated, and construction activity was halted for the rest of the day while fire crews and investigators worked the scene.

Search for Suspect Continues

Police conducted a thorough search of the construction site using a K-9 police dog, but the suspect was not located. Authorities say they have not yet identified the man seen entering the building and have not determined a motive for the incident.

"Officers also used a K-9 police dog to search for the man spotted inside the construction site," Perez said. "Police also called in a state fire marshal, who investigated the scene as an arson."

The Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office is assisting with the investigation and is working to determine the origin and cause of the fire.

As of Sunday, no arrests have been made, and police are urging the public to come forward with any information that might help identify the suspect.

Community Impact and Safety Reminder

The arson has raised concerns about security at active construction sites in the area, especially high-profile commercial developments such as grocery stores. Aldi, a fast-growing discount grocer, has been expanding its presence across Florida, and the new Melbourne location was expected to open later this year.

Officials are asking nearby businesses and residents to review security footage from the area during the time of the fire and to report any suspicious individuals or activity.

Police are continuing to investigate, and updates will be shared as more details become available.

Originally reported by J.D. Gallop in Florida Today.