The Richland-Plummer covered bridge in Greene County is closed after a fire early Sunday.
An arson investigation is underway after Taylor Fire Rescue discovered a pile of matches and a can of gasoline just before 10 a.m.
Nathan Abrams is a Greene county commissioner and said officials are uncertain when the fire began.
“It’s very hard to start a fire with that type of wood,” Abrams said. “I think the fire burnt a long time before it was ever- anybody ever found it.”
The fire was set to a structural beam in the center of the bridge but did not spread too far.
Abrams said an engineer will inspect the damage soon, but he is unsure how much the repair will cost. Under Indiana law, arson damage totaling more than $5000 is a level 4 felony.
Abrams said he is hopeful that a $5000 reward through the Indiana State Fire Marshal will aid the investigation.
Anyone with information can contact the Indiana Arson Hot Line at 1-800-382-4628.
