MCDOWELL COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Local fire departments responded to a series of fires early Sunday morning, with multiple structures and outdoor areas catching fire in McDowell County.
Authorities are now investigating the incidents as potential arson.
At approximately 5:08 a.m., units from the Welch Volunteer Fire Department (WVFD) and Kimball Volunteer Fire Department (KVFD) arrived at an abandoned structure in Hemp Hill, which was fully engulfed in flames.
Just a minute later, at 5:09 a.m., fire crews were dispatched to an outdoor fire near the Flat Iron Drug Store. Responders quickly extinguished the blaze.
At 6:17 a.m., crews were called to a detached garage fire on Maple Avenue, where flames threatened nearby homes and buildings.
Firefighters managed to contain the fire, limiting damage to minor to moderate exterior damage.
At 6:18 a.m., units responded to an outdoor fire at the Reclamation Church on Virginia Avenue, which was also extinguished swiftly.
Jan-Care Ambulance, the Welch Police Department, Welch Gas Co-Op, and AEP provided additional support during these incidents.
The West Virginia State Fire Marshal is investigating the fires, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the WV Arson Hotline at 1-800-233-FIRE (3473).
Rewards up to $5,000 are offered for tips leading to arrests and convictions related to arson.
