It’s either quite a coincidence, or two incidents are related. Either way, police can use your help. It began just before 6:00am last Friday, when Taylorville police were summoned to 1203 W. Spresser. 49-year-old Julie E. Payne told them she’d been hit in the head by a man described as being 6feet tall, muscular, dressed in a mask, and coveralls. Payne was taken to Taylorville Memorial Hospital where she was treated and released. Then Tuesday just before 7:00am authorities were called again on reports of a fire at the same address. According to the police department, no one was home at the time. The Illinois State Fire Marshall’s office was called in and preliminary indications are that the fire was an act of arson.

Police are still trying to determine if the two incidents are connected. If you know anything about these events, you’re asked to contact the Taylorville Police Department or Christian County Crimstoppers.