Community Risk

Spate of Arson Fires Strain Virginia Firefighters

March 7, 2013

Since a string of suspected arson fires began in November, there have been eight total reported on the Eastern Shore, some coming in at the rate of two per day.

Source The Virginian-Pilot

March 07--Two fires on Tuesday brought to eight the number of blazes on the Eastern Shore in the past four days.

Since a string of suspected arsons began in November, it's not the first time more than one blaze has been reported in a single day, but there's no evidence that Tuesday's fires are related, said Jeff Terwilliger, public safety director for Accomack County.

Virginia State Police are investigating more than 60 fires that are believed to be arsons.

The first fire Tuesday was reported shortly before 7:45 p.m. in an abandoned two-story house in the 22000 block of Wachapreague Road in Wachapreague, according to state police. The house was destroyed.

The second fire was reported about 10:55 p.m. in the 24000 block of Church Road in Tasley. An abandoned two-story house there also was destroyed.

No injuries were reported in either fire.

Investigators say they think both fires were arson and continue to investigate.

Two other buildings were damaged by fire Monday night, and four fires occurred during the weekend.

The fires have put a strain on Accomack County's predominantly volunteer fire force. The department has modified its firefighting methods, battling the blazes from outside the structures to minimize risk, Terwilliger said.

He said that his office had not taken a lot of calls expressing concern, but that public safety is the priority.

A $25,000 reward is offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction. Information can be reported by calling or texting 655-1437.

Cindy Clayton, 757- 446-2377, [email protected]