Barton County Sheriff’s officers responded to 210 North U.S. 281 for a vehicle fire at 11 p.m. on Monday and it is believed to be a case of arson, Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir said.
According to reports, upon their arrival, deputies discovered a 1992 Kountry Star motor home fully engulfed in flames. Responding units from the Great Bend Fire Department were able to extinguish the blaze, but the vehicle was a total loss. There was also fire damage to nearby building.
“Upon further investigation it was discovered items had been removed from the motor home prior to the fire,” Bellendir said. “Evidence of arson was discovered at the scene. Officers from the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office responded to the scene early this morning to conduct an investigation.”
A joint investigation is being conducted by the Barton County Sheriff’s Office, the state Fire Marshal’s Office and the GBFD. Losses are estimated to be near $15,000.
“Anyone with information about this crime is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300,” Bellendir said.