FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

31 May 2001
12:00pm

STATE POLICE RULE OUT ARSON IN LONGWOOD COLLEGE FIRE

FARMVILLE - Investigators with the Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation have determined that the April 24 fire that damaged several Longwood College buildings appears to have been accidental. At this final stage of the investigation, State Police investigators have also concluded that the fire's point of origin was on the third floor of the West Ruffner building.

"Our investigation revealed no evidence of an intentionally set fire," said Lt. Raymond J. Scott, Special Agent in Charge of the Appomattox General Investigations Division. "Our findings are based not only on the evidence recovered at the scene, but also as a result of the more than 50 witness interviews conducted by the special agents assigned to this case."

Included among those interviewed by State Police fire investigators were students, faculty, and responding police and fire crews.

At this time, State Police have concluded their investigation.

CONTACT: CORINNE GELLER, PIO (804)553-3494