Authorities Seek Information on ‘Suspicious' Sunny Hills Wildfires

SUNNY HILLS –The Florida Forest Service, Washington County Fire Department, and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office are working together to determine the cause of several ‘suspicious’ wildfires in the Sunny Hills area of Southeast Washington County over the past few months.

Due to the locations and times of discovery as well as other characteristics of the recent string of random fires, it is believed that they are being intentionally set.  In other words, it is a strong possibility that the work of an arsonist—or arsonists—is to blame.

Most of these wildfires have occurred fortunately on vacant lots usually a noticeable distance from any homes.  Quick response times from Washington County Fire Department personnel and the Florida Forest Service wildland firefighters have ensured that the fires have not threatened any nearby homes at this point.

If anyone has any information about the possible causes of these fires, please call 9-1-1.  Or, a cash reward of up to $1,000 is also being offered through Washington County Crime Stoppers for information leading to the arrest of the responsible party.  That number is 638-8477.

The Florida Forest Service protects more than 26 million acres of Florida’s natural resources, homes and business from wildfire year-round.

For more information about the Florida Forest Service, including wildfire information, or recreational opportunities, visit the Florida Forest Service website at www.fl-dof.com.  The Chipola Forestry Center of the Florida Forest Service consists of 7 counties including Bay, Walton, Gulf, Holmes, Calhoun, Washington, and Jackson counties.