Authorities suspect Massachusettes man set his restaurant on fire twice

Nov. 27 (UPI) -- Massachusetts authorities believe that a restaurant owner in Leominster tried to overcook his business for the second time because of gambling and drug problems.

Jeff Cordio appeared in court on Tuesday to face arson charges after firefighters had to come to the West End Diner to put out a blaze for the second time since September.

Investigators say Cordio enlisted the help of another employee to get the fire going. Neighborhood surveillance cameras caught the two men entering the diner and then running away as smoke began to pour out. Cordio’s alleged accomplice was treated at a Boston hospital with severe burns.

After the September fire at the diner, police say they told Cordio he was lucky the windows weren’t open to vent the flames. The windows were wide open during the latest blaze.

Firefighters found $4,000 inside the restaurant which Cordio admitted was for paying his bookies. He has also been charged with witness interference and obstruction of justice.

[CBS Boston]