Orlando Fire Department investigates 'malicious' fire at Gilt Nightclub

Propane tank found inside club, fire officials say

ORLANDO, Fla. – An arson investigation is underway after a fire ignited at Gilt Nightclub in Orlando early Thursday morning.

Orlando Fire Department said it was called at 2:17 a.m. by an automatic fire alarm at the club on Bennett Road.

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When they arrived, the Engine 6 crew found an empty parking lot and a small fire was found halfway up the sidewalk to the front entry doors of the business

Officials said there were two plastic tubs stacked inside another, both tipped over and a small about of burning material was extinguished.

The right front entry door appeared to be smoked out and the security roll down metal door was halfway open with the sprinkler system on inside of the building, fire officials said.

OFD said about 6-8 feet into the building, a 20 pound propane tank was lying on its side and gas vapor could be seen discharging from the hose.

"With the components in the room, it was quick thinking and action by the Orlando Fire Department Engine 6 crew to shut off the tank and remove it from the elements inside to prevent an explosion that could have resulted in the loss of life of our firefighters," OFD said in a release. "The building was then ventilated."

No injuries were reported and the building was unoccupied.

Contact Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS or OFD at 407-246-FIRE if you have any information on the fire.