EAST ST. LOUIS — A St. Louis man faces a federal arson charge after allegedly setting fires inside two Cahokia Heights massage parlors early Oct. 19, 2026, authorities said. One body was recovered from the scene, and an autopsy is pending.
Quentin Hanks, 36, was charged by criminal complaint with one count of arson in connection with the fires at Fuji Super Spa and One Spa. A 911 call reported the fire at approximately 3 a.m. Authorities did not provide a motive.
According to the complaint, investigators determined the fires were started by setting couches ablaze inside the businesses. Fuji Super Spa was at 240 S. 88th St., and One Spa was at 220 S. 88th St.
“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,” U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft said.
Hanks is scheduled for an initial appearance at 9:30 a.m. Friday at the federal courthouse in East St. Louis.
Christopher Amon, special agent in charge of the ATF Chicago Field Division, said special agents and certified fire investigators responded alongside state and local partners to help determine the fire’s origin and cause.
“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,” Amon said.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal, the Cahokia Heights Police Department, the 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.
A criminal complaint is a formal accusation. Hanks is presumed innocent unless proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
