Several Brush Fires Along I-540 in North Carolina ‘Intentionally Set,’ Deputies Say
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA — Authorities in Wake County are investigating a series of brush fires along Interstate 540 that officials say were intentionally set, disrupting weekend traffic and prompting a multi-agency response across several Raleigh intersections.
According to the Wake County Sheriff’s Office, the fires broke out on Saturday at multiple points along the busy interstate, leading to lane closures and heavy smoke across parts of the city. All lanes on I-540 near Capital Boulevard were temporarily closed as firefighters battled the blazes.
Fires Spread Across Several Raleigh Intersections
The brush fires were reported near Glenwood Avenue, Leesville Road, Creedmoor Road, Falls of Neuse Road, and Capital Boulevard, according to ABC11 News. Investigators believe the fires were set intentionally, though the motive remains under investigation.
Emergency crews from multiple jurisdictions worked through the afternoon to contain the flames, which burned close to residential and commercial areas bordering the highway. Traffic was eventually restored after several hours once the fires were extinguished and safety checks were completed.
Sheriff’s Office Launches Criminal Investigation
Wake County Sheriff’s deputies are leading the investigation into the apparent acts of arson. Officials are asking anyone with information or dashcam footage from the affected areas to contact the Wake County Sheriff’s Office at 919-856-6911.
Sheriff’s investigators are also reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses to identify possible suspects or vehicles seen near the ignition points. “We’re treating this as a serious criminal matter,” a department spokesperson said. “Setting fires near an active highway puts countless lives at risk.”
Residents Urged to Stay Alert and Report Suspicious Activity
The fires caused visible damage to brush and grassland areas along the interstate shoulders but did not reach nearby buildings, officials said. No injuries have been reported. Authorities are urging residents to stay alert and immediately report any suspicious behavior near wooded or roadside areas.
The incident follows several recent wildfire safety alerts issued across North Carolina as dry and windy conditions persist this fall. Firefighters say the weekend’s events are a reminder of how quickly roadside fires can spread — especially near high-traffic corridors like I-540.
As the arson investigation continues, state and local officials are emphasizing public awareness and cooperation to prevent future incidents.
Residents with firsthand accounts, photos, or video evidence related to the brush fires are encouraged to share their information with investigators or comment below to help support local reporting efforts by SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
