ATTLEBORO, Mass. — Authorities apprehended a 72-year-old man, suspecting him of deliberately starting brush fires in dry conditions that have been causing fires across the Northeast. This arrest took place during a traffic stop on Saturday, following an extensive investigation that incorporated video evidence. The fires in question ignited in Attleboro, the man’s hometown.

As of Monday, the arrested individual had not replied to requests for comments, and it remains unknown if he has legal representation to discuss his case. The suspicious brush fires in Attleboro sparked within the past week in various locations, including an Elks Lodge, a reservoir, a wastewater treatment facility, and an animal shelter, according to police reports.

In addition to the recent fires, this man is reportedly being investigated for other fire incidents in Attleboro surrounding the time of his arrest. He was set to appear in court later on Monday.

Currently, many areas in the Northeast, Massachusetts included, are experiencing a significant rise in brush fires, a concerning trend that coincides with the ongoing dry autumn conditions.