Sidney, Ohio-State fire marshal investigators have ruled as arson an April 1 storage barn fire that destroyed several thousand gallons of liquid fertilizer and caused an estimated $500,000 in damage. Shane Cartmill, spokesman for the marshal’s office, reported that investigators found evidence indicating the fire was intentionally set, but wouldn’t provide any details because the investigation, which also includes the Shelby County sheriff’s office and the fire department, is ongoing. He said what is called a Blue Ribbon Arson Reward of up to $5,000 has been posted for anyone with information about the person or persons responsible. The division can be contacted at 1-800-589-2728. Investigators are also encouraging other owners of barns, farm equipment, and agricultural chemicals in the surrounding counties to closely monitor their property and report anything out of the ordinary to the local police department or sheriff’s office.
Transparency Across the Fertilizer Value-Chain