Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

Detroit, MI — The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in conjunction with the Michigan Crime Stoppers is seeking assistance on information leading to the arrest and indictment for those responsible for arson. 

In June 2021, investigators with ATF, the Michigan State Police (MSP), and Grosse Pointe City Department of Public Safety, conducted a fire scene examination at the Koi Nu Asian restaurant, located at 17043 Kercheval in Grosse Pointe City, MI.  

 During the investigation, it was determined that the fire incident originated within the northeast interior of the business.  Furthermore, through the use of an ATF accelerant canine the remains of five (5) plastic water bottles, all emanating the odor of gasoline, were recovered. 

 On June 11, 2021, the content from the structure’s DVR was downloaded and reviewed by investigators.  The image of an unknown individual was documented on the video footage.  The mentioned individual entered the structure through the northeast window and poured an unknown liquid throughout the interior, main level of the business.  Following the departure of the noted individual, the fire was ignited.    
 
“Arson is inherently dangerous and threatens the safety of our community, but also the lives of our responding Federal, State and Local partners,” stated ATF Acting Special Agent in Charge Keith Krolczyk. "Arson charges are not taken lightly, we encourage anyone who may know this individual or have details surrounding the incident to call ATF.”

Grosse Pointe City Chief John Alcorn states “If it wasn’t for the quick response of the officers on duty that night it is likely the damage would have been far worse.  I am hopeful that the long-standing cooperation between the public and the police will help bring closure to this case.”

ATF and Crimestoppers have teamed up to offer a $5000 reward. This reward is part of a larger state-wide cooperative initiative between the MI Crime Stoppers and ATF in which reward matching enhances the ability to identify criminal organizations to improve public safety.

Anyone with information about this incident or identification of the individual involved is asked to contact the ATF at -1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477), email ATFTips@atf.gov or submit information anonymously via www.ReportIt.com or the Report It mobile app, available on Google Play or the Apple App Store. When using Report It, select “ATF – Detroit Field Division” as the reporting agency.  Tips can also be delivered to the City of Grosse Pointe at 313-417-1190.

Provide as much information as you can relating to the identity and whereabouts of these individuals. Information can be submitted anonymously, but if a reward is sought, be sure to include contact information. Information eligible for reward must lead to the arrest and indictment of an individual. 

ATF is working in partnership with the Grosse Pointe City Department of Public Safety. ATF is the federal agency with jurisdiction for investigating fires and crimes of arson. For more information about ATF, go to www.atf.gov or follow @ATFHQ on Twitter. Follow @ATFDetroit on Twitter for ATF news in Michigan.

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