$15,000 Reward Offered in California Arson Fires

Authorities are offering a $15,000 reward in the more than 50 suspected arson fires that have burned grass and brush and caused concern in the California city of Novato over the past few days.

Novato Police Chief Joseph Kreins and Fire Chief Marc Revere said in a statement Tuesday that they need the public’s help.

An estimated 56 small fires have been sparked in Novato since Saturday. Authorities believe the fires are related, but no suspects have been identified.

The Marin Independent Journal reports the reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible for the fires.

It’s being funded with $5,000 each from the police department and fire district. The Novato Sanitary District and Novato Disposal – a private garbage contractor owned by Santa Rosa-based North Bay Corp. – are each contributing $2,500.