The Oregon State Police Arson & Explosive Section is asking for the public's help in getting tips regarding investigation of a fire and related criminal mischief to numerous buildings and communication equipment on Sexton Mountain in southern Oregon.
As part of the damage the Oregon Department of Forestry fire lookout was destroyed, and Josephine County 9-1-1 and Wolf Creek Fire Department antennas were damaged, impacting emergency communications.
Sometime between 9:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. on Saturday, unknown person(s) were involved in activity on Sexton Mountain that led to the criminal mischief and fire damage to buildings, communication towers and equipment. The damage was discovered on April 2nd about 7:30 a.m.
Buildings and communications equipment property of Oregon Department of Forestry, Josephine County, Wolf Creek Fire Department, U.S. Forest Service, Freedom Communications, and a private ham radio operator were damaged. Preliminary damage estimates are over $100,000.
OSP Arson & Explosive detectives are conducting an investigation are asking for the public's help with information that will lead to identifying suspects in this case. There is no evidence at the scene indicating the fire and associated damage is related to any eco-terrorist activity.
The location of the incident is approximately 7 miles east of Interstate 5 off Old Highway 99 near Jumpoff Joe Creek north of Grants Pass.
Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact Oregon State Police Southern Communications Center at (541) 776-6111.
Questions regarding Department of Forestry interests should be directed to Dan Postrel at (503) 945-7420.
