The Kitsap County Fire Marshal and the sheriff’s officer are investigating a series of fires that occurred recently at the Illahee Preserve. Their origins are thought to be suspicious.

A total of seven fires have been reported along highway 303 between NE Riddel and NE McWilliams Rd. since August 17.

Four fires ignited Friday, August 24, one in the early morning hours and three more near 6:30 p.m.

“These fires are thought to be related due to their proximity and method of ignition,” according to David Lynam, Kitsap County fire marshal. “This is an extremely dangerous time for this kind of activity. Resources are stretched thin, vegetation is dry and there’s not much rain forecast.”

Although a suspect has yet to be identified, fire marshals say several individuals have reported seeing a white male in his mid-20s, approximately 6 feet in height and very thin in the area. He was last described as wearing a hooded jacket near the fires over the weekend.

“We are interested in talking with that person,” Lynam said.

If you see anything suspicious in the area, call 911. Those with information about the recent fires should call the fire marshal’s office at 360-337-4442.