Grundy County Arsons Unsolved, TBI Pleads for Community's Help

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is now looking into what they say is the 10th suspicious house fire in Palmer over the past year — and they’re asking for the public’s help before someone gets seriously hurt.

The most recent fire happened overnight Thursday, making it the latest in a series of blazes that have all occurred within just a mile or two of each other. According to investigators, all ten fires have taken place over the last 10 to 12 months.

TBI Agent Michael Gamber, who specializes in arson cases, says the situation is becoming increasingly dangerous.

“It’s just a matter of time before someone gets injured — whether that’s a firefighter responding or someone living nearby,” Gamber said.

He also pointed out that with modern building materials, it takes less than 10 minutes for a house to be fully engulfed. “It’s a race against the clock,” he said, “and it’s not one you can win.”

Beyond the obvious safety concerns, these fires are starting to hit residents’ wallets. Property damage like this can drive up insurance premiums, even for homeowners not directly affected.

So far, investigators haven’t received a single tip — but they’re hoping that changes soon. The TBI is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for any information that leads to an arrest.

If you know something, you can share it anonymously by calling the Tennessee Arson Hotline at 1-800-762-3017.

The investigation is being conducted in partnership with the Grundy County Sheriff’s Office. The TBI also says they’ve opened a separate case related to a few recent vehicle fires in the Palmer area, which may or may not be connected.

Officials say they’re throwing every resource they’ve got at this — but they need the public to step up.

“If we don’t figure out who’s behind this,” said TBI spokesperson Carley Gordon, “we’re likely to see more fires, and more damage.”