Essential Estrogen

Late last night eight fire departments and the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office responded to a fire at the old Birmingham school building. Today the fire, which led to a total loss of the structure but no injuries, was ruled arson.

Agents from the State Fire Marshal's Office are asking the public for help. Anyone with information relating to the fire is asked to phone either the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office, 319-293-3426, or the Arson Hotline, 1-800-532-1459. Investigators are particularly interested in speaking with individuals who may have seen activity around the building prior to 9 p.m. yesterday. Information leading to an arrest and conviction may qualify the informant to a monetary reward.

Responding fire departments were Birmingham, Fairfield, Libertyville, Packwood, Stockport, Bonaparte, Keosauqua and Douds.

The Ottumwa Courier has video of the fire.