Arsonists sought in haystack fires

MATTAWA - The Grant County Sheriff's Office is asking for assistance regarding two high-value haystack fires in the Mattawa area in the past 10 days.

The first fire occurred around 10:45 p.m. on Dec. 20 near Roads L and 28 Southwest. The second happened around 12:15 a.m. on Dec. 29 near Roads O and 15 Southwest.

Grant County Fire District No. 8 volunteers and sheriff's deputies responded to the blazes that caused more than $100,000 in losses.

According to Sheriff Tom Jones, "Investigators have found no natural or accidental reason for these fires and are investigating them as arson until further determined."

Jones said deputies are interested in any information about suspicious persons or vehicles in the area. Anyone with potentially useful information is asked to call 762-1160 or email crimetips@co.grant.wa.us.