Alto fire ruled arson

PRESS RELEASE – Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King announced today that a Habersham County fire was intentionally set. The fire occurred at approximately 4:33 p.m. on February 18th on Gilstrap Road. The fire totally destroyed the 125-year-old, 1300-square-foot residence.

“The structure had been vacant for 16 years and was not connected to utilities,” said Commissioner King. “We are asking for the help of the community in bringing the perpetrator(s) to justice. Anyone with information about this Habersham County fire is invited to call my Fire Investigations Unit at 1-800-282-5804.”

Commissioner King’s Fire Investigations Unit is assisting the Habersham County Emergency Services with this investigation. In coordination with the State Fire Investigations Unit, a reward of up to $10,000 is offered by Georgia Arson Control for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for arson.