HUCHINSON COUNTY -- Update:
ProNews7 has new information when it comes to Wednesday's grassfire in Hutchinson County that burned 300 hundred acres. That fire is being investigated as an arson. "We traced the point of origin right along the side of the road at Highway 687 and there were multiple points of orgin, where there were several fires set at the same time, and that is usually an indication (of arson) when it's right by the roadway." said Hutchinson County Emergency Management Coordinator, Danny Richards.
He continued, saying they not only think this fire was set intentionally, but it has the M.O. of several arson fires three years ago. Back then officials investigated 14 fires that were arson, out of those nine of them had the same M.O.'s.
County Commissioners offered a $10,000 reward for the person responsible. After that reward was announced, the fires suddenly stopped.
No arrest was ever made. When it comes to the fire on Wednesday, Richards said it's suspicious because of how and where the fire started. "There are multiple points of several fires set at the same time. That's another aspect that we're looking at. Some of the same evidence is showing up from 3 years ago," said Richards.
If they feel there is an arsonist, they will be going to the Hutchinson County Commission to ask if they can offer a reward. The previous reward has since expired.
If you have information on any of the fires, you're asked to call the Hutchinson County Sheriff's office at 274-6343
Previously Posted:
The grassfire that burned about 300 acres in Hutchinson County Wednesday afternoon is now being investigated as arson.
Danny Richards, Emergency Management Coordinator for Hutchinson County, confirmed to Pronews 7 there were multiple spark points along the highway, making it suspicious. As a result, officials are now investigating it as arson.
Now, here is where the story gets interesting. It was just three years ago when Hutchinson County officials investigated 14 fires that were ruled arson. Richards said nine of those fires had the same M.O.
For those fires, the Hutchinson County Commissioners Court offered a $10,000 reward for the responsible person. No arrest was ever made. If you have any information on the fires, you are asked to call the Hutchinson County Sheriff's Office at 806-274-6343.
