Investigators seek public help in string of Preble County camper fires
Investigators with the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal (SFM) have ruled a string of camper fires in Camden (Preble County) to have been intentionally set. Investigators with SFM’s Fire and Explosion Investigations Bureau (FEIB) are seeking tips from the public to help identify those responsible.
At 5:44 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 13, the Camden Fire Department and the Preble County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the Deer Run Property Owners Association Campground located at 9513 Free Short Pike in Camden for a camper fire.
When firefighters arrived, they found a camper located at 107 Buck-Rub Cove on fire. While on the scene, the fire department found a nearby camper with materials under it that had been set on fire. That camper sustained damage as a result of the burning materials.
Later that same day at approximately 9:30 p.m., the Camden Fire Department responded to the campground again on a report of two additional camper fires. When they arrived on scene, they found campers on fire located at 153 and 154 Antler Cove. A dog found chained to one of the campers sustained serious injuries due to the fire and was taken to MedVet in Dayton to be treated.
The FEIB is working with the Preble County Sheriff’s Office and Camden Fire Department on this investigation.
A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered by the Blue Ribbon Arson Committee for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. Anyone with information is urged to contact the State Fire Marshal’s tip line at 800-589-2728. Callers can remain anonymous, and all tips will be thoroughly investigated.
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