Columbus fire investigators have gone public with photos of a person of interest they say set a fire at a business near the intersection of N. High Street and Morse Road. Investigators report they are reviewing surveillance footage and shared the images while they work to identify the individual. The Division of Fire is asking anyone who recognizes the person to reach out to investigators.
According to the Columbus Division of Police, Division of Fire investigators say the blaze occurred on April 9 near N. High Street and Morse Road, and footage from what was labeled "camera 09" captured the person of interest. The post lists tip lines, including Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-TIPS (8477), provides a Columbus police contact number, and gives an investigator email, [email protected], for anyone with information.
How to report tips
For anonymous tips, Central Ohio Crime Stoppers lists its tip line as 614-461-8477 and also accepts online submissions. For non-emergency police follow-up, the City of Columbus lists the Division of Police non-emergency number as (614) 645-4545 and asks that 911 be used for emergencies.
Why surveillance matters in arson probes
Federal fire investigators note that video and other electronic records are commonly used to establish timelines and identify persons of interest in origin-and-cause inquiries. A recent case in nearby Dublin shows how footage can move an investigation: video evidence played a prominent role in linking a suspect to two business fires, according to coverage of a Missouri man charged in Dublin. The U.S. Fire Administration also highlights the role of surveillance video in its fire-investigation guidance, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.
Investigators say they will update the public through official channels as the probe continues. Anyone with information about the person pictured is urged to use the numbers and email listed in the Division of Police post.
