As a hay bale fire south of Emporia continues to smolder, Lyon County Crime Stoppers has opened up a chance for a reward while Lyon County deputies investigate the case.
The fire near Roads 130 and G hasn’t officially been called suspicious — Emporia Fire has said the cause is undetermined — but deputies are seeking information from the public and Crime Stoppers is encouraging residents to submit tips for a chance at a reward — if those tips lead to the arrests and convictions of those involved.
To submit tips, call Crime Stoppers at 620-342-2273, go online to p3tips.com or use the P3Tips mobile app.
The fire didn’t cause any injuries or create any structural damage, but it burned an estimated 300 hay bales, causing an estimated loss of anywhere between $30,000-$60,000.
12:15 pm Monday: Lyon County deputies investigating Sunday’s hay bale fire
Lyon County deputies are now investigating Sunday’s hay bale fire that is still smoldering south of Emporia.
Fire was reported in the 600 block of Road 130 shortly after 4 am. Fire crews from Emporia and Olpe battled the fire for over four hours before saying the situation was under control, even with some bales still smoking and others with small fires evident. The affected bales may well smolder “for days,” according to Emporia Fire Battalion Chief Eron Steinlage.
Emporia Fire had not determined a cause when deputies started their investigation.
Roughly 300 bales were destroyed, and with hay prices doubling over the past year, the estimated loss could be anywhere from $30,000 to over $60,000. A process has been underway to move another 300 bales or so to make sure they aren’t affected when the wind shifts and picks up speed Tuesday.
