BEDFORD HEIGHTS, Ohio (WOIO) – A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for an arson fire in Bedford Heights.

The State Fire Marshal reported a fire at a four-story commercial high-rise on Northfield Road in Bedford Heights on Tuesday.

Police released a video showing two people walking inside the building near where the fire broke out and also leaving the building. Both people were wearing hoods, masks and gloves. The video also shows one of the people holding what appears to be a lighter liquid.

Police stated that the incident occurred around 01:00 at night.

Bedford Heights, Maple Heights, North Randall, Solon and Highland Hills fire departments responded to the scene for mutual aid.

Although the building is a commercial property, it was determined that many people lived in the office units in the basement. Maple Heights firefighters rescued several children from one of the units and everyone was able to evacuate the building without injury.

According to a press release from the State Fire Marshal’s Office, video and additional information gathered, investigators determined the fire was intentionally set.

The Blue Ribbon Arson Committee is offering the award. Anyone with information is asked to contact the State Fire Marshal’s tip line at 800-589-2728. All leads will be thoroughly investigated.

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