Deputies of the Logan County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a suspected arson fire that occurred early Monday morning at a residence at 10975 Township Road 157, East Liberty.
No injuries were reported in the blaze. The property is owned by Marvin Helfenstein, who passed away Sept. 12, and the home is valued at $155,000.
Deputies on patrol in the area of County Road 153 east of Middleburg about 4:05 a.m. observed a column of smoke and an illumination in the air consistent with a large fire. Upon arrival at the T.R. 157 property, deputies observed the ranch-style home partially engulfed with flames visible through the windows and roof.
At the end of the driveway, deputies were met by a woman who said she had reported the fire. Firefighters of the Allen Township Fire Department arrived shortly thereafter, along with mutual aid from Perry Township, North Lewisburg and Liberty Township.
Deputies searched the residence prior to firefighters’ arrival on the scene, and did not locate anyone inside the home. In addition, deputies searched outbuildings on the property and also did not locate any individuals on the premises.