BELLAIRE — A residential structure fire that broke out Thursday has been ruled arson by the Ohio Division of State Fire Marshal’s Fire and Explosion Investigation Bureau.

Investigators are seeking tips from the public to help identify those responsible.

The Bellaire Fire Department and other area first responders were dispatched at about 4:54 p.m. to fight the blaze at 4239 Noble St. Although significant fire was ventilating from the rear of the structure, crews were able to extinguish the blaze with the use of hand lines and aerial ladders.

No one was injured and the house was unoccupied, although there were several neighboring structures.

The Blue Ribbon Arson Committee is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for this fire.

Anyone who has information should contact the State Fire Marshal’s tip line at 800-589-2728.

The State Fire Marshal is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce, Ohio’s chief regulatory agency. The department is focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. To learn more, visit com.ohio.gov.