SEATTLE -- Hundreds of residents of the city's Greenwood neighborhood packed community meeting on Tuesday night to discuss an arson spree that has plagued the neighborhood in recent weeks.

Some 750 people were present at the meeting at the Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church. About five hundred people crowded into the church while another 150 overflowed into the sanctuary where a spontaneous second meeting was held.

There were more people than the fire code allowed, but the fire marshal made an exception. But there was no calming the emotions of the residents, who have watched local business after business being intentionally set ablaze overnight.

"I think we are not going to let this person do this to our community. I think we're going to step up and we're going to find him," said resident Rene Murry.

Many residents were fed up after witnessing nine intentionally-set fires damage area businesses, some critically.

Just Monday morning residents awoke to learn four more shops had fallen victim.

The worst was a fire on Oct. 23 that destroyed four restaurantsand caused $2 million damage.

On Tuesday fearful business owners said they want to sleep inside their businesses to protect them from the firebug. They were asked to refrain, as doing so could complicate a fire rescue.

Assistant Fire Chief Alan Vickery reminded shop owners that the fight against the firebug has become personal for many firefighters as well. Officials added they've been on high alert in the wake of the fires.

"Even if there is an odor of smoke in this neighborhood, we're sending a couple of fire engines instead of just one to investigate," said Vickery.

Seattle police officers have teamed up with fire and federal investigators to form a task force, and they said they've been patrolling the area around the clock.

Officials also issued a stern reminder to residents to lock recycle bins and dumpsters, and to seal in and water down combustible material the arsonist might utilize.

"I'm thinking about what I have around my own home that I need to move and get rid of take care of," said Liesl Mordhorst.

Investigators also reminded the anxious crowd of the importance of tips from the public.

"As you know, Officer (Tim) Brenton his homicide was cleared by information supplied by a tip. And you are in that same position and have that same power over your community," said Capt. Paul McDonagh.

A $25,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of the person behind the string of arsons.Tips can be called into 800-222-TIPS or 800-55-ARSON.

For updated information on the Greenwood arson investigation, visit the SPD Blotter.