Preble Co. camper fires being investigated as arson

CAMDEN, Ohio ( WDTN ) — The Ohio State Fire Marshal is investigating a string of camper fires that recently occurred in Preble County.

The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal has ruled a series of camper fires as intentionally set. Investigators are now seeking information from the public to help identify those responsible.

On Friday, Sept. 13 around 5 p.m., the Camden Fire Department was called to the Deer Run Property Owners Association Campground located on Free Short Pike in reference to a camper fire.

Upon arrival, firefighters found a camper on fire at Buck-Rub Cove. Nearby, another camper had materials under it that had been set on fire, causing damage to that camper as well.

Around 9 p.m. that same evening, the Camden Fire Department was again sent out to the same campground for another two camper fires on Antler Cove. A dog chained to one of the campers was seriously injured and taken to MedVet in Dayton to be treated.

The State Fire Marshal’s Fire and Explosion Investigations Bureau is working with the Camden Fire Department and the Preble County Sheriff’s Office to investigate the four camper fires.

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.

Those with information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible could receive a reward of up to $5,000.

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