BARNARD — A forest fire on Morgan Hill Road destroyed two camps and injured the owner of one early Sunday morning, officials said.
The Barnard Fire Department responded to the blaze at 6 a.m. Oct. 27 and requested mutual aid from surrounding communities.
Richard Keating, 66, of Barnard, suffered non-life-threatening injuries in the fire that consumed his camp and its contents.
Fire investigators determined the blaze originated outside the building, likely due to improper disposal of wood stove ashes.
Dry and windy conditions have complicated firefighting efforts.
The Department of Public Safety Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit is assisting local authorities in the investigation.
Officials expect smoke to remain visible for several days as suppression efforts continue.
Authorities urge anyone with information about the fire or who was in the area early Sunday to contact the State Police at 802-878-7111.
Tips can also be submitted to the Vermont Arson Tip Award Program at 800-32-ARSON, which offers rewards up to $5,000 for information leading to an arrest.
