Texas Volunteer Firefighter Charged With Arson

A Central Texas volunteer firefighter faces 16 felony arson charges after investigators say he set grass, vehicle, and structure fires in Moore and Pearsall.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) investigated the fires and arrested 18-year-old Dakoda Winchester on October 20. Winchester is a firefighter with the Moore Volunteer Fire Department

The fires caused significant damage to vegetation, fences, vehicles, and structures. They also threatened public safety.

The SFMO is working with the Frio County Sheriff’s Office, the 81 Judicial District Criminal Interdiction Task Force, Texas Game Wardens, and Pearsall ISD Police Department on the investigation. Winchester’s bond was set at $480,000. More charges are expected.

Source: State Fire Marshal’s Office