Published: October 28, 2009 09:03 am      

Woodbine fire could be case of arson

By Samantha Swindler / Managing Editor

A fire that destroyed a double-wide trailer in Woodbine is being investigated as a possible case of arson.

The 32-by-80 foot trailer, belonging to Bill Waligorski at 94 Owens Branch Road in Woodbine, was a total loss, but was empty at the time of the fire.

“They had just moved out two days before,” said Woodbine Fire Chief Rick Fore, adding, “All points indicate it was not an accidental fire.”

All of the belongings and furniture were out of the home when it caught fire some time after 3 a.m. Tuesday. Fore said Waligorski’s nephew had been living in the home.

Based on the odor of accelerants and the fire’s burn patterns, firefighters believe it was intentionally set.

“It was a total loss, it was coming through the roof when we got there,” Fore said.

The fire re-ignited Tuesday afternoon and volunteer firefighters returned to the scene to extinguish the lingering flames.

Fore said it took a total of about 22,000 gallons of water to fight the fire both times.

Oak Grove and Patterson Creek VFDs assisted Woodbine fire department. Fore said the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the fire.