UPDATED: Investigator Explains Why McKinley Avenue Fire Was Ruled Arson

Fire investigator Scott Kelly said nothing inside the home at 516 McKinley Avenue could have caused of April 12, damaging not only that home, but the homes on either side of it.

There were no damages on the inside of the home, he said. That's part of the reason .

"The majority of the damage is on the outside on the back porch area," Kelly said. "I was able to document all the wiring and junction boxes (outside) and there was no arcing with the electricity going through that."

Officials had an accelerant detection K9 from Alliance come in, and the dog had indicated there was an ignitable liquid on the back porch, Kelly said.

Investigators sent debris from the back porch to the State Fire Marshal, and the office determined the liquid was a "medium petroleum distillate" or "mineral spirits." In other words, you could liken the liquid to paint brush cleaner, he said.

So where does the investigation stand now? Fire and police officials are still talking with neighbors and the residents of the 516 McKinley Ave. to get a clearer picture of what and how things happened April 12.

Meanwhile, a Blue Ribbon Arson Committee sign is posted on the door of 516 offering a $5,000 reward for any information leading to the identification of the person or persons responsible for the fire.

Any questions about the fire should be directed to Kelly at 330-499-3404 or Manse at 330-499-5911.

Keep following North Canton Patch for more news on the McKinley Avenue fire.