As part of the ongoing investigation into eight church fires in East Texas, federal, state and local authorities have centralized efforts by establishing a Command Center in Tyler at the Depart of Public Safety Office located at 4700 University Blvd.

Additionally, an official tip line has been established that will be manned 24 hours per day, seven days per week. The Church Arson Hotline numbers are:

(903)939-6169 or (903)939-6172

Persons with information regarding any of the recent church fires in East Texas are highly encouraged to call the Church Arson Hotline. Any information pertaining to possible leads is critical to the investigation.

"We need as much information as possible," said Fire Chief Neal Franklin. "If you have any information about the fires, even if you do not think it is important, please do not hesitate to call the hotline."

ATF is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons involved in these crimes.