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was burned during the arsonist’s two-hour rampage.
To protect themselves, their property and livestock, many residents have taken extreme precautions to prevent the arsonist from striking again. Property is being patrolled regularly, security systems have been installed, and residents have armed themselves.
“[My wife and I] have suffered a blow, and we are taking all the precautions to prevent it again. Like others, we believe we can’t be too careful,” said Wells.
Higgs said residents have made numerous reports of suspicious vehicles in the area, but that those that have been found have been identified as property owners out patrolling the roads.
“I have some real concerns about property owners and horse owners sleeping in their bams armed, patrolling the roads armed,” Higgs said. “It creates potential problems if they overreact to another innocent person in what they may feel is a suspicious or dangerous situation.”
The feelings of violation and vulnerability among residents have escalated since the fires as well.
“It has had such a bad effect on us seeing the wreckage of our bam. It has been so demoralizing,” Wells said.
Added Cynthia Tucker, a ridertrainer who stables horses outside The Plains, “I think people are still scared. There is somebody sick out there and people feel very vulnerable. They don’t feel it was a one-shot deal, and they feel that [the arsonist] could come back again.”
Residents also are rallying to help area horseman Mike Pearson, who lost his stable, horses and livelihood in the barn fire on Route 709. Money as well as stable equipment has been donated to Pearson this past week.
The response has been “quite good” according to Emily Hutchison, who had horses in the Pearson bam fire and is helping re-establish his stable. “Things are still needed though. Anything that people can do will help,” she said.
Tax deductible contributions may be sent to “Meadow Outdoors Foundation, Mike Pearson Fire Relief Fund,” do Great Meadow, Rt. 2, Box 70, The Plains, Va. 22171. Tack and stable equipment may be dropped off at Great Meadow as well. For inquiries, call Ms. Hutchison, (703) 687=6238.
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