The Yukon Kuskokwim Health Corporation is upping a reward to $20,000 for information that leads to the arrest or conviction of those responsible for the fire that destroyed the PATC alcohol treatment center. They previously offered a $5,000 reward.
YKHC says it was a criminal act that started the blaze last October during construction of the $12 million dollar alcohol treatment center. The 16-bed facility was 90 percent framed.
An investigation from the state Fire Marshal’s office said the cause of the fire was ‘undetermined’. In the report, investigators say the fire started in the southwest corner of the building near a locked utility locker but they could not determine the ignition source. Though investigators ruled out all possible mechanical and electrical causes, their summary does not explicitly rule out arson.
YKHC is rebuilding the facility, but says its completion will be delayed at least a year. YCHC is requesting anyone with information about the fire to contact Sergeant Amy Davis with the Bethel Police Department or Deputy Nathan Rocheleau with the Alaska Department of Public Safety.
Ben Matheson is a contributor with the Alaska Public Radio Network.
