A Memorial Day house fire in Hart County was set on purpose, according to state fire investigators.
The Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner's Office in Atlanta announced the ruling on Friday, saying the residence at 2530 Old Elbert Road in Royston was destroyed by an act of arson.
Investigators said the residence had been vacant for about one year and was not connected with utilities at the time of the fire. The 1,700 square-foot home was destroyed in the fire.
A reward of up to $10,000 is available for anyone who has information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for setting the fire. The State Arson Hotline is open 24 hours a day at 800-282-5804. Tipsters may remain anonymous.
State investigators assisted the Hart County Fire Department and Hart County Sheriff’s Office with the investigation.
Officials say the house was estimated to be 120 years old and valued at $20,000.