PORTAGE | Portage Fire Department investigators have determined an early Wednesday morning fire at a U.S. 6 business was deliberately set.

Assistant Fire Chief Mike Bucy said the department has ruled the fire an arson after the investigation found multiple points of origin and suspicious burn patterns. It also is suspected an accelerant was used.

The building at 5463 U.S. 6 housed Budget Rental Cars and Highland Auto Credit.

Bucy said the fire may have been started to cover up a burglary. There were things missing from the Budget Rental Cars office, he said, including an empty safe and car keys for vehicles parked in the lot.

Portage police Sgt. Keith Hughes said a 2001 Chevrolet Tahoe also was reported stolen from the business during the night of the fire. The SUV belongs to a friend of business owner Chris Norman. The building is owned by Fred White, of Hebron.

The fire was reported about 1:47 a.m. Wednesday. When firefighters arrived, heavy fire was showing from both the front and roof of the building. The damage was estimated at $40,000.

Bucy said the investigation is continuing, and anyone with any information is asked to call the department at (219) 762-7404.