Ohio Department of Commerce
07/30/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/30/2026 19:29
Investigators Seek Public Assistance in Bascom Arson Case
COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Ohio Department of Commerce's Division of State Fire Marshal (SFM) has determined that a May 29, 2026, residential fire in Bascom, Ohio, was intentionally set. Investigators are seeking assistance from the public to identify individuals who may have information relevant to the ongoing arson investigation.
The State Fire Marshal's Fire and Explosives Investigation Bureau (FEIB), in coordination with the Seneca County Sheriff's Office, is attempting to identify the driver of a black Jeep and a woman who was seen walking a dog in the area at the time of the incident. These individuals may have information that could assist investigators. Photographs of both subjects are attached to this release.
The fire occurred at 540 N. County Road 7 in Bascom. Upon arrival, the Bascom Joint Fire District (BJFD), along with additional responding departments, observed smoke emerging from multiple points of the two-story single-family residence and flames visible from a rear window of the structure. A photo of the residence is also attached.
Anyone with information that may aid the investigation is encouraged to contact the Seneca County Sheriff's Office tip line at (419) 447-3456 or here. In addition, FEIB is also requesting the public's help in identifying the individual or individuals who may have been involved. A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered by the Blue Ribbon Arson Committee for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. Anyone with information is urged to contact the State Fire Marshal's tip line at 800-589-2728.
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About the Division of State Fire Marshal
The Division of State Fire Marshal is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.
Ohio Department of Commerce published this content on July 30, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on July 31, 2026 at 01:30 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]