According to an independent investigation by the West Virginia Department of Forestry, the fire that destroyed over 2,800 acres back in April was intentionally set.

West Portsmouth firefighter Micheal Thompson was arrested on Mackletree road near where the fire originated after calling in the wildfire. He fled the scene and was later found to have accelerants on him.

Arson charges were later dismissed without prejudice by prosecutors meaning that he could be charged at a later time if enough evidence is brought forward.

The wildfire is reported to be the largest state forest fire in Ohio History