Fire said arson

The fire at the concession stand at Smiley Park late Friday night has been determined to be arson, according to Van Wert Fire Chief Jim Steele. The determination was made as a result of an investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office on Monday. A reward of $5,000 is also being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person, or persons, who set the fire, Chief Steele noted. The building, which the fire chief said was insured, was considered a total loss. (Dave Mosier/Van Wert independent)