Southington Road Fire Ruled Arson

The fire at 57 Southington Road early Saturday morning has been ruled to be arson by the Berlin Fire Marshal's office and the State Fire Marshal's office.

Berlin Deputy Fire Marshal Matt Odishoo said, "The fire at 57 Southington Road has been found to be intentionally set. The Fire Marshal and Berlin Police Department are looking for the community to help us with any information they may have on the fire."

Odishoo said a tipline has been set up and a reward up to $2,500 is available to anyone who gives information leading to an arrest in the case.

The tipline is 1-800-84-ARSON or 1-800-842-7766.

"The tipline is answered 24 hours a day," Odishoo added.

Jacob Halligan, the assistant golf professional at Timberlin Golf Club was on his way to practice at around 6 a.m. when he saw the fire. He called 9-1-1 immediately. He parked his car and ran up the long driveway to see if anyone was inside the house.

"There was smoke pouring out of the windows but by the time the first volunteer fireman got there it was blazing," Halligan said.