Grass fires set along Hwy. 401 in Port Hope suspected to be arson

PORT HOPE — Police are asking for help in the suspected arson of 15 grass fires that blazed along Highway 401 on Monday afternoon.

The highway was blanketed in smoke Monday afternoon as multiple grass fires burned.

Fire crews from Port Hope, Hamilton Township and Cobourg responded to the fires eastbound from East Townline Road through to Toronto Road. The first call came in around 2:15 p.m. on Monday.

About 15 grass fires were believed to be deliberately set, Northumberland OPP said.

Two OPP aircraft units assisted with determining that no fires were set further eastbound and to possibly locate a suspect vehicle.

Fire crews extinguished the fires in a timely manner preventing them from spreading, which could have led to highway closures, police said. Traffic slowed in some areas as visibility was reduced and fire crews fought the blaze.

These fires had potential for disaster and police are seeking the public’s help with any information that may assist in locating the person or persons responsible for this act.

Although there were reports of a suspect vehicle seen in the area, the OPP have not confirmed further details on a suspect or vehicle, said Northumberland OPP media relations officer Const. Kimberly Johnston.

NOTE: Anonymous tips can be made to the Peterborough/Northumberland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 where you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,000 and not have to appear in court.