Firefighter Arrested for Arson

The following information has been provided by Chief Bruce Kline of the Lady’s Island St. Helena Fire District:

In response to recent reports we are surprised, saddened and disappointed by the allegations that have been levied against one of our firefighters. While the incident in question has occurred in another jurisdiction, these unfortunate circumstances pertain to a member of this department.

It is important to note, that all of our firefighters are registered with the State Fire Marshal. All employees of the District prior to hiring are subjected to extensive background checks through local law enforcement as well as the State Law Enforcement Division and a drug screening is conducted while all references are contacted. They are further tested for physical and medical fitness by the department physician and a rigorous physical agility exam.

He (Bryan) was a good employee who served this district for just over two years without incident. He will be placed on administrative suspension without pay until the judicial process has been completed in keeping with our departments’ policies.

Our department recognizes the public trust instilled in us and we hope that the community does not judge the department based on the accusations levied against one. We have always been dedicated to serving our community to the best possible standard and that will not change.

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A follow up in the Lowcountry Wednesday night, where police have arrested a firefighter for arson. It's in connection to at least four fires, including one last Saturday.

A home under construction in Palmetto Bluff was destroyed. Bluffton police say Bryan Yeager has been arrested. He's a part-time security officer working in Palmetto Bluff. He's also a firefighter with the Lady's Island/St. Helena Fire District.

He's accused of starting the first fire on November 25th in a trash bin on the May River Golf Course. The second incident happened on December 16th, in a wooded area behind Calder Park in the May River Forest.

The third incident happened in a wooded area near Headwaters Road, close to where Saturday's fire burned the home under construction.

Police have not released any further information about Yeager or a possible motive for the fires.