Local authorities are wondering who set a fire that caused minor damage to a modular home Sept. 22 in the Lake Villa Manufactured Home Community.
The result of the minor fire ? officially ruled an arson ? to the double-wide modular home at 405 Shummard Bridge was the scorching of the skirting at the back of the trailer. The damage was estimated at about $500.
Oxford Fire Chief Jack LeRoy said that his department didn’t even get the report of the fire until about a day later. He estimated it took place sometime in the afternoon or early evening the day before.
‘Apparently, neighbors noticed small fire burning at the back of the home and went to check on it,? LeRoy said. ‘They used a garden hose on it.?
The next day when the homeowner came back to her residence, she was informed of the fire. She then called the police, who contacted the fire department to get a report.
The fire department was assisted by the Oakland County Sheriff’s fire investigator, who investigated the fire and determined it was an arson, although a minor one.
LeRoy said that based on the findings, the fire was started with gasoline. At this point there are no suspects. The homeowner hasn’t had any problems with anyone, LeRoy said.
‘From what we understand, they’ve had typical nuisance problems with the neighborhood in general,? the chief added. ‘No particular problems. It appears to be kids in general, but no indication of a particular vendetta. I’m sure somebody knows about it.?
LeRoy encouraged anyone who has a fire at their house, no matter how small it seems, to file a report with the fire department since many insurance companies won’t pay for damages unless there’s a report.