LEANDER, Texas -- Four months ago wildfires scorched tens of thousands of acres in Central Texas burning homes and causing widespread damage.
In Leander, wildfire victims are moving forward as investigators are trying to find who is responsible for causing the fire.
The Moon Glow Fire damaged or destroyed 18 homes on Labor Day, and it caused the evacuation of 500 residents. Leander firefighters estimated they saved 370 homes.
The Leander Fire Department battled three major fires from June to September. The Gran Mesa Fire started June 16, the Horseshoe Fire started on Aug. 15, and the Moon Glow Fire started Sept. 5. Together they caused $2 million in property loss.
“Labor Day in Central Texas is probably one of the most devastating times the state of Texas has ever seen,” said Leander Fire Chief Bill Gardner.
Gardner says fire investigators and police are investigating the Moon Glow Fire as arson. Witnesses say they saw four teenagers running from the origin of the fire -- two boys and two girls. However, investigators say they need the public to report any type of suspicious activity in order to piece together the clues and make the arrest.
“When you don't have the ability to walk in and say, 'This is the person that did this,' that caused such sadness and heartbreak that hangs out there every day,” said Gardner.
Mike Whelan is among the Leander residents who lost their homes and belongings. He passed the bar exam and started his own family law firm in the days after the wildfire. He said his four children and his wife have been through a difficult few weeks, but are looking forward to a brighter future.
“I think our goal through this whole process is starting in a better place than we began,” Whelan said.
The deadline to apply for individual assistance through FEMA is Friday, Jan. 6.
