Authorities are seeking the help of the public in the investigation of a town of Wheatland fire that has been deemed the result of arson.

According to the Vernon County Sheriff’s Department a fire at the Russell Dieter residence at S7221 Bluff Rd., De Soto, near Hwy. 35, occurred at 2 a.m. on Monday, April 27.

The cause of the fire has been under investigation by both the sheriff’s department and the Wisconsin Fire Marshal’s Office.

Evidence found at the scene of the fire underwent forensic testing that determined the fire was intentionally set.

The Dieter home was destroyed in the fire.

“Investigators are seeking any information from anyone that may have noticed anything out of character in the neighborhood that would help solve this serious crime,” according to the sheriff department’s press release on the matter.

The Vernon County Crimestoppers are also involved with the Wisconsin Arson Tip Line to help produce clues to the crime. The Wisconsin Arson Tip Line can be called at 800-362-3005 and Vernon County Crimestoppers at 608-637-8477 or 1-800-657-6868.

Sheriff investigators can also be contacted at 608-637-2123 or 800-637-2123.