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DNR: Karlstad Fire Was Arson, Reward Offered

Web Extra: Karlstad Wildfire Gallery

KARLSTAD, Minn. (WCCO) -- The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says the wildfires that caused plenty of damage in the Karlstad area appear to have been intentionally set.

Authorities are offering a reward of up to $6,000 for information leading to an arrest in the case.

The fires, which began on Sept. 30, destroyed at least seven mobile homes, four regular homes, two garages and 22 other structures in the Karlstad area.

The DNR says that by the time the flames were extinguished, they had burned 4,440 acres in Marshall and Kittson Counties.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kittson County Sheriff's Office at 218-843-3535 or the Marshall County Sheriff at 218-745-5411.  There is also an anonymous arson tip line available at 1-800-723-2020.

The Associated Press reported that the DNR didn't say why arson was suspected. A wildfire supervisor with the agency didn't immediately return calls Wednesday.

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