KEYSER, W.Va. — The state Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating a number of suspicious fires in Mineral County.
According to authorities, the fires began July 5 with the latest blaze occurring August 12. The fires have been in Keyser and Piedmont.
Assistant State Fire Marshal Joe Vacchio said the majority of the fires are “extremely similar.”
“We have some commonalities with regards to areas where the fires originate,” Vacchio said.
Most of the fires have occurred in vacant or abandoned residences, according to Vacchio.
“Some of those properties did not have utilities,” he said.
Investigators are also working closely with fire marshals in Maryland because similiar blazes have been reported in nearby Allegany and Garrett counties. Several fires in Pennsylvania are also under investigation, Vacchio said.
“We’re comparing information and sharing information. Joint efforts have been offered and will be utilized,” he said.
Authorities are urging residents to be diligent and be aware of their surroundings.
“Anything you see in regard to unusual occurrences report to police or to the state Fire Marshal’s Office,” Vacchio said.
Anyone with information is asked to call the WV Fire Marshal arson hotline at 1-800-233-FIRE.
The locations of the fires under investigation include 134 and 136 W. Hampshire St in Piedmont on July 5; 51 State Street in Keyser on July 6; 1515 Beacon St in Keyser on Aug. 8; 405 Webster Dr in Keyser Aug. 11; and 89 E. Hampshire St. in Piedmont on Aug. 12.