DETROIT --
The family of a fallen firefighter is pleading for information in an arson fire that resulted in the death of senior Detroit firefighter Walter Harris.
Harris, a 17-year fire veteran, died on Nov. 15 while battling a blaze at a vacant home on Kirby Street in Detroit.
Arson investigators found accelerants at the scene and determined that the fire was intentionally set.
Harris' son, who is also a Detroit firefighter, pleaded with the public to come forward with any and all information that may help them close the case.
Harris, 37, leaves behind a wife and six children. The youngest is 1 year old.
James Harris asked that any "would-be" arsonist consider the ramifications of their actions.
"He was one of our best, one of the city's best," said Detroit Homicide Detective Duane Black. "He was dedicated to the department, his family and community."
Crime Stoppers is offering a $1,000 reward and the Detroit Arson Prevention committees is offering an additional 5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible for the fire.
"Someone, somewhere knows something about how this fire occurred," said Detroit Arson Investigators Chief Gary Victor.
Anyone with information is asked to call 1-800 SPEAK UP.
