A 36-year-old St. Louis man is facing a federal charge for allegedly setting fire to two massage parlors in the Metro East.
Quentin Hanks was charged via complaint with one count of arson.
U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft filed a criminal complaint, based on the preliminary investigation, bringing “incredibly serious charges for an incredibly serious crime.” He says they will carefully examine all the facts and conduct a full grand jury investigation before seeking an indictment.
According to the complaint, Hanks is accused of setting fire to the Fuji Super Spa and One Spa massage parlors in Cahokia Heights in the early morning hours on Oct. 19. The fire was reported via a 911 call at approximately 3 a.m.
One body was recovered from the scene, and an autopsy is pending.
Investigators determined the arsons were committed by setting couches on fire inside the two businesses.
ATF Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon says intentionally setting fire to a commercial business is an act of violence that endangers not only employees and patrons but also first responders and the surrounding community.
Hanks is scheduled for an initial appearance hearing at the federal courthouse in East St. Louis on Friday at 9:30 a.m.
ATF, Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal, Cahokia Heights Police Department, Signal Hill Fire Department and the St. Clair County Coroner’s Office are contributing to the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Hudson and Cahal McColgan are prosecuting the case.
