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Investigators ask public to search for arsonists

Indian Ridge Golf Club's clubhouse remains in ruins while members of the State Fire Marshal's office search for the four suspects involved with the June 22 fire.
Indian Ridge Golf Club's clubhouse remains in ruins while members of the State Fire Marshal's office search for the four suspects involved with the June 22 fire.

Brandon Hoelle

Indian Ridge Golf Club's clubhouse remains in ruins while members of the State Fire Marshal's office search for the four suspects involved with the June 22 fire.

Investigators are closing in on suspected arsonists who set fire to the Indian Ridge Golf Club in June, according to Shane Cartmill, spokesperson for the Ohio Division of State Fire Marshal.

Cartmill said the identities of the four suspects cannot be revealed, but the general public can help expedite closing the case.

"What typically happens is that someone - a friend or family member for example - will hear someone talking about the incident," Cartmill said. "But rather than just mentioning it, the person will often have specific or detailed information."

Cartmill said help from the public could be just what investigators need.

"No matter how small the tip may seem, it could be exactly what investigators are seeking," Cartmill said.

The Indian Ridge Clubhouse was set on fire June 22 and suffered a complete loss of more than $1 million in damages, according to Cartmill. He also said although the specifics of the case could not be discussed, the investigators were able to figure out it was arson rather quickly.

"All accidental causes were ruled out," Cartmill said. "Investigators found specific evidence which led them to the determination of arson."

Jim Brazen, general manager of Indian Ridge Golf Club, said he never expected the fire to take place and was devastated.

"I was shocked," Brazen said. "I was the first person here. This place is a second home to me."

Brazen said he hopes the suspects will be caught and questioned, but said he has been given very little information regarding any updates of the investigation.

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"We didn't know it was arson until the fire marshal told us," Brazen said. "They don't tell us that kind of stuff. We read about it in the paper just like everyone else."

Zeth Rowan, an Oxford resident, said he was concerned about the future of Indian Ridge Golf Club after the fire.

"I was home when I found out," Rowan said. "It hit really hard. I golf there a lot and thought they would just have to shut down."

Brazen said nothing is being done to reconstruct damaged building, but he said he hopes to have a new facility up and running by spring 2010 so golfers like Rowan can once again enjoy the green.

"I can't wait to come back and golf there again," Rowan said. "I'm really excited to see the new clubhouse once they get it up."

For the time being, Brazen said he is waiting for the apprehension of the arsons.

Cartmill said a Blue Ribbon Reward of up to $5,000 may be offered to anyone with information about the person or persons responsible.

"Anyone who has heard someone talking about the fire or someone who reacts oddly to mention of the fire, should contact the Division of State Fire Marshal," Cartmill said.

The Division of State Fire Marshal can be reached at (800) 589-2728.