By Shannon McFarlin News Director
Big Sandy, Tenn.–Over 100 headstones were damaged and memorabilia on gravestones at the McRae Chapel Cemetery in Big Sandy were destroyed by an unattended fire which spread through the historic cemetery.
The Big Sandy Fire Department responded to the call Monday and was able to extinguish the blaze, but only after it had caused widespread damage.
Family members of persons buried at the cemetery are upset with the destruction.
Benton County Sheriff Kenny Christopher said Wednesday morning that a fire started in a burn barrel got out of control in Monday’s windy conditions and was left unattended. The fire was started by residents of the old church on the property. He said, “The fire spread over about three-fourths of the cemetery.”
Christopher said charges have been filed, including burning without a permit, reckless burning and leaving the fire unattended. He said the property owners admitted their negligence and said they would pay restitution. “It was accidental, but they have admitted their negligence,” he said.
The sheriff said he is trying to find cleaner that will clean up the stones.
Photo by Deborah Pace.