Arson Blamed for Several Fires in Texas Panhandle

Five fires this week in the drought-stricken Texas Panhandle have been declared arson as investigators try to determine whether the blazes are linked.

The Amarillo Fire Marshal’s Office says two structure fires, a grass fire and a fence fire were reported Fourth of July night.

Deputy Fire Marshal Jacob Diaz told KVII-TV that investigators believe all four fires were intentionally set, along with another grass fire Tuesday.

Diaz says authorities are seeking the public’s help in finding whoever is responsible for the fires. The blazes have all been in one general area of Amarillo.

The Texas Forest Service reported Thursday that 239 of the state’s 254 counties have outdoor burn bans, including the entire Texas Panhandle.