Sprinkler system prevents arson from spreading inside Macau Casino in Lakewood

LAKEWOOD, Wash. — A sprinkler system prevented an intentionally set fire from spreading inside the Macau Casino in Lakewood, Washington, West Pierce Fire & Rescue officials said.

On Monday around 7 p.m., firefighters responded to reports of a structure fire at the casino located at 9811 South Tacoma Way.

Fire officials say smoke was present inside the building and occupants were evacuated.

Arriving crews determined the fire was in the women's restroom, but say the sprinkler system inside the casino saved the structure and its occupants.

"Without the automatic sprinkler system in place, the fire would have quickly spread and the incident would have been much larger," West Pierce Fire & Rescue said in a news release.

West Pierce Fire & Rescue investigators determined the fire was intentionally set and the Lakewood Police Department is investigating the incident.

KIRO 7 will continue to update this story as more information becomes available.

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