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Seeking help solving fires
The state has identified eight fires that were arson or likely arson.
SALEM — The Division of State Fire Marshal’s office wants to hear from you.
Shane Cartmill, a spokesman for the Ohio Department of Commerce that includes the fire marshal’s office, said that people may think investigators know all the facts.
But that may not be the case.
Cartmill asked people to call the agency “with the smallest details” that could be part of solving the crimes.
The office has identified eight fires, five of which were ruled arsons. The cause of three other fires were each ruled as undetermined but are most likely arson, according to the fire marshal’s office.
Cartmill said, “There are three or four other fires that may be part of it but we have not been called to formerly investigate.”
There also may be other fires that were not reported. People should also call the fire marshal’s office.
“We want to see how widespread this may be,” he added.
The office had five investigators in the county Wednesday.
While the cause of the other three fires remains undermined, investigators believe their cause is most likely arson.
That’s based on similarities revealed during the investigations. The similarities of the eight fires include the time the fires ignited and the location of each blaze.
Cartmill said he could not comment on those details as the investigation continues.
In some cases, he said, some similar blazes turn out not to be connected.
The eight fires, locations and rulings are:
• L.J. Hays Inc., Kensington, Sept. 19, arson.
• Garage with a motor home, Irondale, Sept. 30, undetermined, most likely arson.
• Three campers in Hammondsville, all on Sept. 30, all arson.
• Two barns in Wellsville, both on Oct. 2, undetermined, most likely arson.
• A vacant home in Wellsville, arson.
The cost of the damage has not been announced. A $5,000 award is being offered for information leading to the arsonists.
People with information should call the state fire marshal at (800) 589-2728.
wilkinson@vindy. com