It seems that the investigators estimating the recent Gatlinburg fires responsible for claiming 14 lives to be "human-caused," were unfortunately right. Apparently, the prior four-month drought made the arson-work of two juveniles all the convenient, fanning flames unparalleled in 100 years. The fires were a backdrop of orange-red and angry, licking flames which reportedly ascended a mile, only to splash to the ground and create new tongues. Winds were of a hurricane caliber, spanning eighty-seven miles per hour. All in all, 14,000 people were evacuated from the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge areas, with at least 2,400 structures damaged. Much is still yet to be divulged, both about the juveniles, as well as the victims.
The juveniles were taken into custody Wednesday. Because the suspects were not from Sevier County, more personal information is yet to be disclosed. It is also undecided whether they will be charged as juveniles or adults---or even whether there remain "more arrests." At this time, it would appear that the prosecutor expresses slant towards trying them as adults.
"Authorities would not share their genders, ages, or hometown," reported Tony Gonzalez of a local news channel has estimated, "The local prosecutor says he may seek to try them as adults."
At present, the juveniles are being held at the Sevier County Juvenile Detention Center until further action. Steve Closter, head of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (responsible for finding the culprits), has ensured that justice is priority in this tragic loss. Though the fires continue to ensue, they are more contained due to the recent rains and the tireless efforts the courageous firemen who have fought day and night in harsh conditions. Locals are praying for more rain for a complete ending to this lengthy disaster.
