Lynn brush fires threatening homes were intentionally set, fire officials say
The brush fires that threatened homes in Lynn in the past week were intentionally set, fire officials said Wednesday.
An investigation revealed that eight separate fires were set on May 12, May 13 and May 17, the State Fire Marshal’s office said.
Over 400 acres have burned since the first blaze that called every Lynn firefighter to Lynn Woods Friday afternoon.
“Any fire can present a hazard, but we saw rapid fire growth threatening numerous homes in our community as a result of these fires,” said Lynn Fire Chief Daniel Sullivan. “Firefighters from Lynn and our mutual aid partners worked extraordinarily hard to bring them under control, and we’re extremely fortunate that we had no serious injuries or property damage.”
Massachusetts has been experiencing abnormally dry weather conditions this spring. Coupled with dry winds, the circumstances are ripe for dangerous brush fires.
Dry, windy conditions ripe for brush fires
“Fires like these put people, property, and wildlife at risk,” said Chief Fire Warden Celino. “We’re experiencing Red Flag conditions across Massachusetts right now, with high winds, low humidity, and very dry fuel. Outdoor fires will burn rapidly, spread quickly, and produce dangerous fire behavior under these conditions. That puts an enormous strain on firefighters, their departments, and the communities they serve.”
Jimmy, the owner of Superior Roast Beef, Pizza, Seafood told Boston 25 News he hopes the arsonist’s actions are halted.
“Not right,” he said. “It was very concerning because it was close to the neighborhood we live in.”
Anyone who may know anything regarding the suspicious fires is asked to contact the State Police Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit at 978-567-3310 or the Arson Watch Reward Program at 1-800-682-9225.The Arson Watch Reward Program offers rewards of up to $5,000
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