(UPDATED 10:38 A.M., AUG. 11)
JACKSON, MI - A fire that destroyed a two-story east side Jackson home and killed several pets on Thursday is being investigated as arson.
A Michigan State Police Fire Investigator is aiding in the investigation into the blaze that sparked inside the home in the 1800 block of Pringle Avenue at 1:17 p.m., Aug. 10, according to a Jackson Police Department press release.
Investigators determined an accelerant was used in the fire, leading police to believe the fire was intentionally set, Director of Police and fire service Elmer Hitt said.
No arrests have been made at this time.
Hitt reminds the public the investigation is still in its early stages and people should not jump to conclusions as there is no clear motive behind the fire at this time.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Holly Rose at 517-768-8724, or report information anonymously to Crime Stoppers of Mid-Michigan at 855-840-7867.
The fire, which is believed to have started on the first floor, quickly worked its way up through the home and erupted through the roof, Deputy Director of Fire Services David Wooden said.
Two dogs, both German Shepherds, died in the fire along with three cats, Assistant Fire Chief Chris Ermatinger said.
The homeowner, Nikki Joly, is an American Red Cross worker and director of the Jackson Pride Center, which opened in February 2017. Joly has been an active supporter of the city's non-discrimination ordinance and LGBT rights in Jackson.