State seeks tips in Willard arson

WILLARD — State fire investigators have determined that a Christmas Eve fire at a Huron County home was intentionally set and are asking the public for help identifying those responsible. According to a news release issued Monday by the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal, investigators ruled the fire at 3300 Ohio 103 in Willard an arson following an investigation by the Division's Fire and Explosion Investigations Bureau and the Huron County Sheriff's Office. The fire was reported at 2:22 a.m. on Dec. 24. The Willard Fire Department responded to the scene along with several departments that provided mutual aid. Three people were inside the home at the time of the fire, but neighbors were able to wake the occupants, allowing them to escape safely, according to the release. State fire marshal investigators are now seeking tips from the public to help identify the individual or individuals involved. A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered by the Blue Ribbon Arson Committee for information leading to an arrest and conviction, the release states. Anyone with information related to the fire is asked to contact the state fire marshal's tip line at 800-589-2728. Willard Fire and Rescue Chief Joe Reiderman referred press inquiries regarding the fire to the Huron County Sheriff's Office. As of press time, telephone calls to the department had not been returned. The investigation remains ongoing.