MOUNT VERNON — State fire investigators and police are investigating an arson and several acts of vandalism that occurred between 3 and 4:30 a.m. on Wednesday on Point Drive in Mt. Vernon. The road, located off Route 17, also goes through Fayette and is adjacent to Echo Lake.

Fire Marshal’s Office investigator Ken MacMaster and Maine State Police Trooper Breanne Petrini are investigating vandalism that ranged from damage to several homes along the roadway being spray-painted bearing the statement of “2013 Bears” to a pickup truck and trailer set on fire and completely destroyed, state police Sgt. Jeffrey Beach said in a news release.

The total damage amount is estimated to be several thousand dollars, he said.

Investigators were able to collect evidence, which will be processed by the Maine State Police Crime Laboratory in Augusta. Investigators are asking for anyone with information on the incident to come forward and contact the Maine State Police.

Fayette Town Manager Mark Robinson sent an email Thursday stating that vandals spray-painted several properties and vehicles, then poured gas on a pickup truck, boat and trailer located on Point Drive and torched them.

Many of the residents affected by this senseless crime own seasonal properties on Echo Lake, Robinson said.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office investigators and state police spent Wednesday obtaining evidence and pursuing leads, he said.

If anyone has information that may benefit this investigation, they are asked to call the Maine Department of Public Safety at 624-7076. 

Robinson asked that people be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

dperry@sunjournal.com