Arson stumps police
Friday, October 26, 2001
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LaNIA COLEMAN
THE SAGINAW NEWS
State and federal fire investigators say they're stumped in their search for the arsonist who torched a St. Charles Township building.
Officials say the Oct. 12 fire at the Jehovah's Witnesses Kingdom Hall, 11750 Fergus, likely was a hate crime.
Neighbors reported the blaze about 3 a.m. when they saw flames shooting through the roof, authorities have said.
Vandals frequently had targeted the hall, painting swastikas on the sidewalks and breaking lights, said Specialist Sgt. Leonard Jaskulka of the state police Fire Marshal Unit in Saginaw.
"The fire was definitely arson," Jaskulka said.
Investigators found "ignitable liquids," he said, but "so far, we have been unable to identify a suspect."
The FBI and federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms are assisting in the investigation.
The fire caused about $150,000 damage.
More than 50 firefighters from seven departments worked for about six hours to extinguish the flames.
The Michigan Arson Prevention Commission will pay up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the arsonists.
Anyone with information should call the commission at (800) 44-ARSON, or Jaskulka at (989) 758-1915. Tipsters may remain anonymous.t