The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office has identified five males who are considered suspects in the Plainview Fire that started on January 10, 2006.  It is important to note that the investigation is ongoing at this time and no charges have been filed to date.

The fire, which started at approximately 6:30 p.m., consumed over 2,700 acres and two small buildings.  Two communities, the Blue Mountain Estates and Plainview, were evacuated the night of the fire. Highways 72 and 93 were closed during the firefighting operation. Over 200 firefighters from 26 agencies battled the blaze throughout the night.  The residents of the communities were allowed back into their homes and the highways were opened at approximately 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, January 11, 2006.

Sheriff's Office investigators are still interviewing people and examining evidence.  The need to determine the extent of responsibility of the five males, two 17-year-olds and three 18-year-olds, is crucial to what criminal charges may be filed with the District Attorney's Office.
The identity of the 18-year-olds will be released upon filing of charges.
 
Possible charges include but are not limited to:

• 4th degree arson
•  Trespass
•  Criminal mischief
•  Tampering