For Immediate Release:   April 12, 2002

Owosso, Michigan. The Fire Marshal Division of the Michigan State Police has determined, after an extensive investigation of the fire scene, that the blaze which destroyed the Michigan State Police Owosso Post and other attached businesses was an act of arson. The investigation, which utilized the services of four MSP fire investigators, numerous district detectives, and the Dearborn Fire Department’s accelerant detection K-9, remains active. Detectives are requesting assistance from the general public in the following areas:

• Anyone with information regarding the person or persons who may be responsible for this crime.

• Anyone that drove by the Owosso Post between the hours of 4:00 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 9, 2002.

• Anyone with video tape footage or still photographs of the fire or fire scene.

Additionally, the MSP Fire Marshal Division is offering a reward of up to $5000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for this arson. The Michigan Arson Prevention Committee has funded a 24-hour arson tip hotline, at 1-800-44-ARSON (442-7766), for those with information relevant to this crime.

Owosso State Troopers continue to provide full service police patrols to the citizens of Shiawassee County. Nelson Gates, Chief of the Owosso Police Department, is providing office space and parking for MSP personnel while the search for a permanent replacement post continues.

END