Investigators Seek Tips After Fire At Derelict Sutton Drive-In

SUTTON, MA — Investigators are offering a reward for information about a four-alarm Sunday brush fire along Route 146 that damaged an abandoned drive-in theater and drew a response from a dozen local fire departments.

In a news release on Tuesday, Sutton Fire Chief Matthew Belsito, Police Chief Dennis Towle, and state Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey asked for tips from the public about the cause of the fire. The officials also reminded witnesses that a state arson program provides up to $5,000 for valid information.

"Our goal right now is to gather as much information as possible," Belisito said in a news release. "You can remain anonymous if you wish."

Fire officials are still investigating the cause of the brush fire. The fire was reported near 4:30 p.m. on Sunday at the former Sutton Motor-In along southbound Route 146. The blaze jumped across the highway to Harback Road along the northbound lanes, forcing the closure of the road.

Firefighters from Mendon, Webster, Oxford, the state Department of Conservation and Recreation, Millbury, Grafton, Uxbridge, Douglas, Northbridge and Auburn fought the blaze until nearly 9:30 p.m. Firefighters from Leicester and Charlton provided backup fire coverage during the incident.

Anyone with tips about the Sutton fire can contact the state arson line at 1-800-682-9229.