A reward has been increased for information leading to those responsible for the fire that destroyed a Bracken County Magistrate's home.
Kentucky State police along with agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms have determined that the fire was a result of arson.
The reward now stands at $11,000 for information that may help the investigation.
The fire occurred during the early morning hours of May 25 at the home of Magistrate Neil Brumley on Belmont Road, just outside of Brooksville in Bracken County.
He and is wife were inside when the fire started and were able to escape safely.
Investigators say a liquid accelerant was discovered at the scene.
"It was a shock to everybody I think in the community," said Gary Riggs, the Bracken County Judge Executive.
Gary Riggs is the Judge Executive for Bracken County.
He says a letter was found after the fire threatening him and eight members of the fiscal court over their initial approval of an ordinance that calls for planning and zoning in the county. A second vote is still needed.
The proposal has stirred up strong opposition in the county.
"We are looking into it very hard to see if there is any link between the letter and the incident," said Rick St. Blancard of Kentucky State Police.
On Friday, the Kentucky State Police put up fliers in businesses in Brooksville asking for information.
They've also increased patrols around the courthouse and throughout the county.
"It's a common reaction for people who work at the courthouse who are very nervous, very skittish, due to this incident and because of that we have increased our presence," said St. Blancard.
Investigators with Kentucky State Police and the A-T-F spent Friday doing interviews and continue to follow leads.
In the meantime, residents in this quiet community say they'll be more cautious.
"I think this person should be punished to the full extent of the law because I do feel they tried to commit murder on two counts on this action and I don't know what they'll do in the future," said Riggs. "Its just a shame its come to this level."
The next time county leaders will meet is June 10th.
Any information that may aid in the investigation can be called anonymously to 1(800)272-7766, or 1(800)222-5555.
