Multiple Fires Across Eastern Suffolk Under Investigation

Crime & Safety

Multiple Fires Across Eastern Suffolk Under Investigation WATCH VIDEO: The fires were sparked in Brookhaven, Yaphank, and Medford, and at least two broke out at a town park within hours, cops say.

BROOKHAVEN TOWN, NY — Arson Squad detectives are investigating at least three fires that were part of multiple brush fires that sparked across Brookhaven Town on Tuesday, Suffolk police said.

The first broke out on Havens Avenue in Brookhaven at around 3:19 p.m., and the second, at around 4:33 p.m. on Horseblock Road in Yaphank, followed by the third at 4:52 p.m. on Jamaica Avenue in Medford.

Another brush fire broke out at Twelve Pines Park in Medford at around 3:40 p.m., however, its cause is not under investigation. A second fire broke out at the park at around 4:17 a.m. on Wednesday.

In a Facebook post on Tuesday night, Brookhaven Supervisor Dan Panico said that there were a "a slew" of fires on Tuesday, including the one at the park, which was recently renovated for families and children.

"I've been around long enough to know that there are only so many coincidences in life," he said, adding that the town will press charges against "anyone who is caught setting fires" on town property and open space.

"Our volunteer firefighters have families of their own, they utilize taxpayer-funded equipment, and bravely protect the lives and property of others," he said. "They should not be put in harm's way or taken away from their families due to the intentional or negligent actions of others.

The New York region has seen a spike in brush fires amid the lack of significant rainfall recently.

This past weekend, firefighters responded to a 14-alarm blaze that was moving quickly toward houses in Medford before it was doused by multiple fire departments.

Another large fire also broke out in Baiting Hollow .

The largest fire to date has been dubbed the Jennings Creek Wildfire on the border of New York and New Jersey.

An 18-year-old forest ranger was killed in the efforts to knock the fire down on Saturday.

A critical weather conditions warning was in effect on Tuesday due to dry conditions, coupled with gusty winds, across Long Island and the lower Hudson Valley.

This is a breaking story. Check back for updates.