The fire that killed a 66-year-old New Philadelphia woman in the early morning hours of Nov. 29 has been ruled arson.
The State Fire Marshal’s officially ruled the apartment fire that killed Leanne Asuncion, 66, as an arson.
The New Philadelphia Fire Department was dispatched to 247 Allen Lane SW for reports of a fully involved fire. When they arrived to the scene, they located Asuncion in her first floor apartment building.
No suspects have been named at this time as the marshals continue investigate the fire. The Blue Ribbon Arson Committee is offering a $5,000 award for information leading to an arrest and conviction.
Other occupants of the four-unit apartment told dispatch they believe the fire was started by someone else in the building because they had been arguing all night with their partner.
Again, no names have been released for possible suspects.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the fire marshal’s office at (800) 589-2728 or the New Philadelphia Police Department at (330) 343-4488.