Arson Determined as Cause of Bethany House Fire

BETHANY, CT — An early morning house fire in Bethany Saturday has been ruled an act of arson, and local firefighters are asking for the public's assistance to catch those responsible.

The house at 229 Bear Hill Road where the 3:59 a.m. fire occurred is vacant, and a reward of up to $2,500 is being offered in connection with the arrest and conviction of the perpetrators, according to a post on the Bethany Volunteer Fire Department's Facebook page. Firefighters from Bethany, Woodbridge and Beacon Falls were called in to battle the blaze, which was well underway by the time they arrived.

After the blaze was brought under control, fire marshals and investigators from the Connecticut State Police poured over the site to determine the cause.

"The subsequent investigation has ruled the fire an Arson and we are looking for any assistance or witnesses to come forward," wrote Bethany fire officials. "The investigation remains open and active in an effort to apprehend the individuals involved with this crime. Anyone with any information is urged to contact the Bethany Fire Marshal’s Office at 203-393-2100 ext. 119 or call the Arson Hot Line directly at 1-800-842-7766."

Photo credit: Bethany Volunteer Fire Department