The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is offering a reward of $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the Oct. 26, 2009 fire of Legends Bar and Restaurant, 68925 M-62 in Edwardsburg.

On Oct. 26, 2009 at approximately 1:50 a.m., the Ontwa-Edwardsburg Fire Department responded to a heavy fire venting from the Legends Bar and Restaurant structure. The structure was unoccupied at the time of the fire. Upon fire suppression the Michigan State Police (MSP) was contacted and conducted a fire scene examination. Experts from ATF and MSP have examined the evidence and determined that the Legends fire was intentional. The structure was a total loss with damages in excess of $1 million.

In addition to the ATF reward, the Michigan Arson Prevention Committee is offering an additional $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual or individuals responsible for the fire.

“Arsons have a devastating effect on our communities,” said Thomas Brandon, special agent in charge of the Detroit ATF Field Division. “Arsons not only result in the loss of income and the loss of property, but they also endanger the lives of firefighters who respond to these fires and protect our communities. ATF and MSP will continue to work together towards our goal of a successful prosecution in this crime.”

Anyone with information about this crime is urged to contact the ATF hotline at (888) ATF-FIRE (283-3473). The investigation is a joint operation between the ATF and the MSP.

The ATF is the federal law enforcement agency with jurisdiction for investing crimes of arson. More information and ATF and its programs can be found at www.atf.gov.