The criminal investigation continues into the July 12, 2010 fire that destroyed the warehouse facility at Carter Brothers Manufacturing Company at Hamilton Crossroads in south Pike County.

On July 19, 2010, state and federal investigators determined that arson was the cause of the fire that caused damage to the building estimated at between $16 and $20 million.

The fire was the second major fire at the go-kart manufacturing business in 10 years. The first fire was determined accidental.

Ed Paulk, state fire marshal, said Wednesday that his office is actively following any and all leads into the criminal investigation and the Arson Hotline is open.

“We are encouraging anyone who feels that they have any information about this crime to contact us through the hotline at 1-800-654-0775 or on our website www.aldoi.gov,” Paulk said. “This crime is a costly one for many people. Insurance rates are based upon losses, including those that are attributed to the crime of arson. We are and will continue to actively pursue and then prosecute the individual or individuals who committed this crime. Prosecution of crimes of arson can help reduce future crimes and future loses.”

Paulk said his office is actively following leads no matter how insignificant one might think the information is.

“Any information is important to us,” he said. “So, whether you think the information you have is good, bad or indifferent, it could be helpful in finding who is responsible for this crime.”

Paulk said a case of this nature could turn on a dime.

“We might have what we think is a strong lead and it could turn out to be nothing,” he said. “Then, we might have information that seems insignificant but could strike a rich vein. So any information is important to solving this crime. We’ve got leads and we’re looking for more. So those who have any information are asked to report it.”