3 arrested, accused of setting fire to Banks County pole barn

Fire destroyed this 2,400-square-foot pole barn in Banks County on Friday, July 8, 2022. Investigators determined it was intentionally set. (photo by State Fire Marshal's Office)

Banks County deputies arrested three Danielsville residents after they allegedly set fire to a large pole barn. The Friday fire destroyed the 3-month-old 2,400 square foot structure and around 100 bales of hay.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office identifies the suspects as Mark Dwayne Kelly, 54, Tammy Kelly, 50, and Dwayne Lee Kelly, 32. Deputies arrested them at the scene on Spring Road. The Kellys are each charged with criminal damage to property in the 2nd degree.

(photo by State Fire Marshal’s Office)

Fire investigators responded to the scene around 4:30 a.m. on July 8 and found the barn and hay “totally destroyed,” says Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John King.

“Upon further investigation, the fire was found to be an intentional act and three suspects were arrested at the scene. The owner of the barn had no previous connection with the offenders,” King says.

The State Fire Investigations Unit is assisting the Banks County Fire Department and Sheriff’s Office with this investigation.