U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) yesterday asked the attorney general to provide additional resources to Coatesville to help track down a serial arsonist or arsonists responsible for a string of arsons that has terrorized city residents.

"It is clear that despite support from federal and state levels, local law enforcement and first responder sources are stretched thin and community residents are fearful and frustrated," said Casey in a letter to U.S. Attorney Eric Holder.

"Specifically, I request that you direct any available discretionary funding and ATF or other law enforcement resources to support Coatesville efforts," Casey wrote.

On Wednesday Gov. Ed Rendell promised Coatesville $500,000 to help pay for overtime for the local police and fire departments so that they can expand the investigation and to assist fire victims.

Already in place is a county Arson Task Force comprised of city police, county detectives, and federal agents from the FBI and ATF.

Since last summer some 40 fires in Coatesville and neighboring municipalities have been ruled arson. Last month a fire believed to be arson related destroyed 15 row homes on Fleetwood Street, forcing has many as 50 people from their home.