Reward in former outlet arson case in Reading goes to $110,000

Reading Eagle: Bill Uhrich | The former outlet building at Eighth and Oley streets in Reading was gutted by a fire on Oct. 18.

The reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the $12 million arson at the former Reading Outlet Center complex has been boosted to $110,000.

Associated Builders and Contractors Inc., a national construction organization, added $25,000 to the total Thursday when it increased its share of the reward to $100,000.

Developer Alan W. Shuman was converting the six-story building at Eighth and Oley streets into luxury apartments and commercial space when it was heavily damaged by a four-alarm blaze on Oct. 18.

The fire was ruled arson 10 days later by the federal bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, which has offered a $10,000 reward of its own.

"ATF has made it clear that this was intentionally set by a professional who knew what they were doing," ABC Keystone President and CEO John R. Zimmer said in announcing the increased reward. "This increase sends a clear message that we will not rest until we identify and convict whoever was responsible for this thoughtless, irresponsible act that put lives at risk."

Shuman, an ABC Keystone member, was grateful the group increased the reward to which he contributed $10,000.

"I hope they find the person who is responsible," he said. "I hope it prevents anyone from doing this again in the city."

Shuman said he plans to proceed with the project despite the fire and was awaiting a city permit to put a new roof on the building.

ABC Keystone represents 600 construction-related firms and is part of a national organization of 70 chapters. Five Pennsylvania chapters of builders and contractors group contributed to the reward.

Meanwhile, the ATF and Reading police are continuing their investigation of the fire. Anyone with information is asked to call 888-ATF-FIRE (888-283-3473) or email ATFTips@Atf.gov. -

Source: Reading Eagle