Georgia Officials Rule Arson in Motel Blaze

The state Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner has ruled that an arsonist destroyed a motel in south Georgia.

Commissioner Ralph Hudgens says the blaze at the Relax Inn in Folkston originated in an empty storage room around 7 p.m. Thursday.

The fire gutted the building and the roof collapsed. Officials say rewards of up to $10,000 may be given for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the case.

Hudgens says first-degree arson is a felony punishable by between one and 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000.

Folkston is about 45 miles northwest of Jacksonville, Fla.