FBI Announces Reward Leading to Arrest of $130,000 Horse Carriage Arson

FBI- Chicago Division press release

Robert J. Holley, Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) announced this week that a $5,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of the individual or individuals responsible for the arson that occurred at the Noble Horse Theatre located on Chicago’s near north side three months ago.

In the early morning hours of February 6, 2015, the Chicago Fire Department responded to a fire at the Noble Horse Theatre, 1410 North Orleans St, Chicago. Thirteen horse-drawn carriages, worth approximately $130,000, were destroyed in the fire, and significant damage was caused to the building.

Investigation identified the cause of the fire as arson, and graffiti typically associated with the animal rights extremism movement was also discovered. Fires were set in two separate horse carriage storage areas, and the words “SAVE THE HORSES” and “FREEDOM” were spray-painted on two interior walls.

Anyone who has information regarding this suspicious fire is strongly encouraged to contact local police or the Chicago office of the FBI at (312) 421-6700.