ATF offers reward in Philadelphia arson

PHILADELPHIA (WTXF) The ATF announced a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the person believed to be responsible for an arson on S. 17th Street in Philadelphia.

Investigators say the fire was reported at around 8:45 a.m., on July 26 at a building that contained a restaurant and residential apartments under development. Fire investigators say they conducted a thorough examination of the fire scene and have ruled the fire to be an act of arson. There were no reported injuries and the fire caused damages and losses initially estimated at $500,000, according to authorities.

"We ask the public to provide any information that will assist investigators with identifying and arresting the arsonist." said ATF Special Agent in Charge Sam Rabadi. "Deliberately setting a fire puts people's lives in danger and causes considerable property damage. ATF will pursue those who commit crimes of arson in our daily commitment to protect our residents, our businesses, and our communities."

The criminal investigation is being conducted by ATF, the Philadelphia Police Department, and the Philadelphia Fire Department.

Anyone having information about the arson or the identity of the individual in the surveillance photographs should call the ATF Hotline at 1-888-ATF-FIRE (1-888-283-3473) or email: ATFTips@atf.gov.