Authorities investigating multiple arsons in Williamsport

Williamsport, Pa. — Williamsport authorities are jointly investigating a number of suspected arsons and unrelated fires at separate locations around the area.

Williamsport police officers and firefighters responded to reports of fires at four locations on Nov. 4, according to a news release. Those incidents include:

"Any potential fires at each scene were extinguished," the release said. There were no injuries reported during these incidents, and no structures were severely damaged.

Investigators are also looking into several fires that occurred earlier this month, which they said appear accidental and unrelated. A smoldering dumpster fire was reported on Nov. 3 at 2 a.m. on 1070 Vine Ave. On Nov. 1 at 3 p.m. a dumpster fire was discovered at the rear of the Hampton Inn, from an unknown origin at 140 Via Bella St.

The risk of fires — set intentionally or through carelessness — developing into more dangerous wildfires is currently heightened. DCNR is prohibiting campfires in state park and forests, pointing to recent dry conditions, sunny, unseasonably warm temperatures, and low humidity which have heightened wildfire risk.

Williamsport authorities said investigations into these incidents are ongoing. If you have any information about these incidents, please contact the Williamsport Fire Department at 570-329-3821.