The State Fire Marshal’s Office is asking for the public’s help with its investigation into a suspicious fire that destroyed an abandoned house in Cleveland earlier this week. Spokesman Glenn Allen says authorities are trying to determine if it was intentionally set.
The 131-year-old, two story wood frame structure went up in flames mid-afternoon Monday, April 25. The house was located at 23 Poppy Drive just off of Highway 129 south of Cleveland. By the time a motorist spotted it and reported it to authorities, Allen says it was fully involved.
He says the residence was owned by the estate of John Ayers. The last occupant passed away in September. Although it was vacant, the house did have utilities running to it.
“Investigators have not made a determination (as to the cause),” says Allen, “but are looking at it as being suspicious.” Anyone with information about the fire is asked to call the toll-free Arson Hotline at 1-800-282-5804.
“If it is arson and someone provides information that leads to the arrest of the arsonist or arsonists,” says Allen, “they could get a reward of up to $10,000.”
