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East Palestine investigating another possible arson

EAST PALESTINE — A second possible arson fire is being investigated near the village.

Fire Chief Josh Brown said the department was notified around 1:30 p.m. Tuesday that somebody set a shed on fire at the Unity Township baseball fields at Elwonger Road and Brookdale Avenue.

He said the fire was reported by Kevin McKinstry, president of the East Palestine Girls Softball Association.

They reported that the shed had been broken into and set on fire. The fire was out by the time of the report, and Brown said it appeared to have burned itself out.

The 10- by 20-foot shed contained a lawn tractor and miscellaneous baseball field care supplies owned by the association. Brown said those items suffered moderate smoke and fire damage

The shed and the contents were insured, Brown said.

He said the baseball fields are owned by Duncan Brothers Drilling.

“We are asking the public to come forward with any information on this fire, or the fire at 973 W. Main St.,” he said.

Those with information should contact the fire department at 330-426-4341.

He said the state fire marshal will also be involved in the shed fire investigation. The fire marshal’s office ruled the 973 W. Main St. fire as arson earlier this week.

That fire was reported on Friday and destroyed the three-story vacant home that formerly operated as an assisted living facility.

Information on that fire could result in a state reward up to $5,000 for those who can help identify the person or people responsible resulting in their conviction and arrest.

In addition to contacting the fire department with information pertaining to the West Main Street fire, the public may also call 1-800-589-2728.

The county sheriff’s office assisted the department at the Unity Township fields on Tuesday.

kwhite@mojonews.com

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