The second suspected arson in two days was reported Tuesday at Creekside Tavern on Gornto Road, where the back door had been set on fire sometime in the night on Monday.

Management found the damage when they came to work on Tuesday. Valdosta Police officers were called to the scene.

Valdosta Police Department Cmdr. Brian Childress said Creekside managers found pine straw at the back of the building which was used to attempt to set fire to the restaurant.

On Monday, officers worked a similar attempted arson at Slap Daddy’s restaurant on Baytree Road. Someone apparently set the back door on fire before fleeing the scene when the gas can exploded.

Both restaurants are owned by Pat O’Neal, who also owns Ole Times Country Buffet, the Smok’n Pig and Smok’n Pig Express in Valdosta.  O’Neal said he has no idea if or why someone might be targeting his businesses.

For the complete story, please see today’s edition of The Valdosta Daily Times.