Reward Offered for Information on Recent Dumpster Fires

Troy Police are asking the public for help after a half-dozen potentially dangerous Dumpster fires were started along the Rochester Road corridor on two separate nights last week.

The first three fires occurred between 11:50 p.m. Feb. 25 and 12:38 a.m. Feb. 26. Fires were lit in garbage containers at 3303 Rochester, the 500 block of Century and , according to Troy Police.

On Thursday, three more fires were reported at 3444 Ellenboro, the 1000 block of Coachman and again at Wattles Elementary School.

Police say a witness to one of the first Dumpster fires last Saturday reported seeing several juveniles start the fire and flee the scene.

"Troy Police and Fire departments are concerned over the safety of buildings, persons and property regarding Dumpster fires," Troy Police Officer Andy Breidenich said, "and would appreciate the assistance of Troy citizens in helping to identify the persons responsible for the Dumpster fires."

To encourage residents to report the crimes, the Michigan Arson Prevention Committee is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of anyone on arson charges.

Anyone with information about the incident can contact the at 248-524-3447 or the Michigan Arson Prevention Committee at 1-800-44-ARSON (1-800-442-7766).