Orangeburg County deputies are investigating two overnight fires. Sheriff Larry Williams believes they are connected to nearly a dozen other fires. The string dates back to December, with each case sharing a common factor-the torched home was abandoned.
Since Christmas, Dayvlin Gibson has watched fires destroy parts of his neighborhood.
"I think it's a tragedy right now," said Gibson. "I think Orangeburg needs some help."
Sheriff Larry Williams hopes that help will come from concerned citizens.
"I believe someway, somehow, someone is going to come forward," said Sheriff Williams.
He would like it to happen sooner rather than later.
"The fires are just a part of the madness we've had out there in that area," said Williams.
He says the Stilton Road neighborhood has been on his radar for some time.
"We have been working that area for months," said Williams. "In fact you may recall some months ago, maybe a year ago I had two officers who were shot in that same area."
And most recently officers arrested at least 30 people during a drug sting. The Sheriff says the fires may be revenge.
"I think anytime a person commits a crime in my county they are sending me a message. They are challenging the local authority," said Williams. "My message in return is we'll be back."
Sheriff Williams says the damage estimates for all of the burned houses, is $200,000.
If you have any information that might help investigators call Crimestoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forWACH