Fire Watch

Seven arson fires investigated in Golden Valley County

Posted: Sep 26, 2012 10:35 AM by MTN News
Updated: Sep 26, 2012 10:35 AM

RYEGATE - Authorities in Golden Valley County have been fighting a string of seven fires they believe were intentionally set.

Sheriff Floyd Fisher tells Q2 that the first fire was discovered this past Saturday, burning about 7 miles south of Ryegate.

Several additional fires were then discovered, burning in a southeast direction toward Broadview.

Sheriff Fisher says the fires were burning in grasslands and timber, ranging in size from one-half acre, to 28 acres.

One of the fires burned a 100-ton haystack of round bales.

As of Tuesday night, Fisher says one of the county's fire trucks and a two man crew is still monitoring the area, keeping an eye on any remaining hot spots.

Authorities suspect arson due to witness statements, and Sheriff Fishcer says the State Fire Marshal's office has been called in to investigate.

Fisher points out that like many counties, Stage 2 fire restrictions are in effect in Golden Valley County.

He told Q2 News that he's worried the county's resources have been depleted responding to the string of arson caused fires.

Topics: Billings, KTVQ, Golden Valley County, arson, fires, Montana