New Fire Probed in Pennsylvania Area Hit by Arsons

February 5, 2009

As authorities investigate another fire in a suburban Philadelphia community plagued by a string of arsons, city officials plan to enlist community members to help look for whoever is setting the fires.

Coatesville spokeswoman Kristin Geiger says a town watch organizational meeting is set for 7 p.m. Wednesday at Scott Middle School. She says the program will operate under the direction of law-enforcement personnel.

Special Agent John Hageman of the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives says the latest fire was reported about 9:35 p.m. Tuesday at the rear of a home in Coatesville. It’s the 21st in the area since the start of the year.

Authorities say there is now a $20,000 reward for information leading to arrest and conviction of the arsonist.

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Information from: Daily Local News