Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

ATF, Local Agencies Join Forces to Investigate Coatesville Area Arsons

Arson investigators with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are working alongside members of the Coatesville Police Department, Chester County (Pennsylvania) District Attorney’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police and the FBI to apprehend those responsible for a string of arsons in and around the Coatesville community.

Eighteen arsons have struck Coatesville since January 1, and an additional five arsons have occurred in surrounding communities. In 2008, the former steel town of about 12,000 people endured 26 arsons.

“ATF is bringing all of its resources and expertise to bear in this investigation,” stated Mark Potter, the special agent in charge of ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division. “A multi-agency task force has been assembled here in Coatesville that has some of the best and most experienced arson investigators in the country. Those responsible for these fires will be brought to justice.”

A $20,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the Coatesville arsons. The tip line number is 484-356-6109.