St. Louis man accused of Metro East massage parlor arsons (DOJ)

EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. - A St. Louis man is facing a federal charge for allegedly setting fire to two massage parlors in the Metro East.

Quentin Hanks, 36, was charged via complaint with one count of arson.

"Today, we filed a criminal complaint, based on the preliminary investigation, bringing incredibly serious charges for an incredibly serious crime. We will carefully examine all the facts and conduct a full grand jury investigation before seeking an indictment," said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft.

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.

"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. ATF Special Agents/Certified Fire Investigators responded to the scene alongside our state and local partners to assist in determining the origin and cause of the fire. ATF remains committed to working closely with our state and local partners in the region and the U.S. Attorney's Office to ensure the individual responsible is held fully accountable under the law," said ATF Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon.

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. Fuji Super Spa was located at 240 S. 88th St. and One Spa at 220 S. 88th St. in Cahokia Heights.

A complaint is merely a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.

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.