The fire gutted the traditional structure, frustrating plans to hold a sacred healing ceremony there on July 22.

It was determined that several felony crimes, including arson, were committed by a person or persons. Since the ceremonial structure was situated on what is considered federal land, the Sheriff's Department is consulting with the FBI.

A face to face meeting is expected midweek.

According to Julian Lang, a spiritual leader of the Karuk Tribe, Tribal Councilman Robert Goodwin told the investigators: “We want every resource available to be brought in. This crime has impacted a lot of people. As many as 500 people attend this ceremony.”

Lang said Detective Sgt. Randy Bigler told the gathering that the investigation would take time.

The tribal council will be notifying tribal members on their website, www.karuk.us, urging anyone with information to cooperate with the Siskiyou County Sheriff's Department. Council members Florence Conrad, Robert Goodwin and Leaf Hillman said they expect an announcement to be made soon on a reward for information leading to the arrest of whoever was involved in the fire.

Lang told detectives that the fire was not an accident. “Whoever it was did not come in here, light a fire and then run,” he said. “It would have taken three people at least an hour to do the damage that we see here, and that's if they were working hard, non-stop.”

According to Lang, the sacred house was built entirely of Port Orford cedar without nails according to traditional architectural methods. The center space, called the “house-pit,” is where the sacred rituals occur. The Brush Dance is a healing ceremony for a sick child.

Lang said the Siskiyou County Sheriff's detectives assured the tribal leaders that they will do everything possible to find those responsible for the crimes. They requested that anyone with any information to contact their 24-hour dispatch at 530-842-2900. The tribal council members also urge that everyone cooperate with investigators.