$25,000 Fires Start Search for "Firebug"

Article taken from The Lima News, September 24, 1934

PORTSMOUTH, O., Sept. 21-(AP)-A firebug, believed by authorities to be responsible for two conflagrations with in a 24-hour period which cost in excess of $25,000, was sought today by police in the wake of two parades on successive night here.

The Korn Karnival parade was at its height last night when the city firemen were forced to break ranks and run for their equipment. A blaze was discovered at the Leet Lumber Co., a block away from the parade route, shortly after marching hundreds has passed by.

Loss was estimated at $25,000 , partly covered by insurance.

Wednesday night a fire started in the old Tracy Shoe Co. building while thousands participated in the Merchants' celebration. Fortunately, that emergency developed as the firemen were passing the building. They quenched the flames with little damage.

Police Chief Harry Sheets and Fire Chief Robert Leedon said they believed the fires to be the work of someone with a mania for setting them.