The fire that led to the deadly explosion at the West Fertilizer Co. plant in April 2013 has been determined to be arson, according to the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives.
The explosion that was started by the fire killed 15 people and destroyed or damaged buildings within a 37-block radius, including the local high school.
The agency arrived at its conclusion after conducting more than 400 interviews, did a fire-scene examination and reviewed videos and witness photos.
“All viable accidental and natural fire scenarios were hypothesized, tested and eliminated,” the agency said in a statement.
As a result of the findings, the agency is now offering a reward of $50,000 to help find the person who started the fire, which is now being considered a crime. So far, no arrests have been made and it is unknown what the motive was for setting the fire.
Source: www.agprofessional.com