Several hours later, deputies were advised that the fire had started back up and the subject that was believed to have started the fire was seen leaving the property.
A witness came forward and identified a male subject starting a fire along the ditch on the roadway. Deputies were advised that the subject that was setting the fires was located at a gas station in the Amsterdam area. Deputies made contact with male subject, identified as Joshua R Gregory of Amsterdam Missouri.
After the fire was put out deputies noted that there was damage to private property. A vinyl fence located along the roadway damaged caused by the fire.
Deputies arrested and charged Joshua R Gregory with knowingly burning with property damage. Gregory is being held in the Bates County Jail on a $10,000 cash only bond.
This situation could have been much worst than it was due to the wind. Thanks to the fast action of the fire department the situation was handled quickly.
Disclaimer: Arrest records are public information. Any indication of an arrest does not mean the individual identified has been convicted of a crime. All persons arrested are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
