GATLINBURG, Tenn. — The National Park Service said a six-acre large brush fire that briefly jumped containment lines near Townsend may have been intentionally set, and authorities are now searching for an arson suspect.
The fire was reported on Nov. 20, and responders sent voluntary evacuation notices to nearby areas as crews worked to contain it. A shelter opened at the Tuckaleechee United Methodist Church to help anyone who left their homes due to the fires. By 8:30 p.m. on Monday, the fire was 100% contained.
However, it jumped containment lines as high winds moved into the area, prompting another response. The NPS said it used a helicopter to drop water and suppress the fire, and dozers from the Tennessee Division of Forestry worked to improve the containment line.
Crews responded to a second fire in the same area at around the same time.
The NPS said Wednesday that two fires were set on Nov. 20 in the Rich Mountain area by an unknown person. They were started with high-wind conditions and a red flag warning in place, along with a burn ban in the park.
“Intentionally setting fires in the park, except in designated rings or picnic areas, is always illegal and is extremely dangerous, especially under the extreme weather conditions we saw this week,” said Boone Vandzura in a statement, Chief Ranger of Resource and Visitor Protection. “We are asking visitors and neighbors for help as we work to identify those responsible for this suspected arson.”
According to the release, witnesses saw a white truck at the Rich Mountain trailhead on Nov. 20 at around 10 a.m. which may not have been involved in the incident. However, NPS said occupants in the car may have seen something that could help authorities identify a suspect.
Tipsters can stay anonymous, and the NPS said it is offering a financial award for validated information.
Anyone who wants to share information about the fires can call or text the NPS at 888-653-0009. They can also submit tips online, or by emailing nps_isb@nps.gov.