Custer County, OK — A Custer City man has been charged with multiple felony counts after authorities say he set a series of grass fires across two western Oklahoma counties over several weeks.
Skyler Dean Terrell, 31, faces eight counts of third-degree arson and one count of engaging in a pattern of criminal offenses, according to court records. The charges stem from fires reported between Feb. 18 and March 16 in Custer and Dewey counties.
Investigators allege the fires were intentionally set along rural roadways and pastureland, burning hundreds of acres of grass and damaging fencing on multiple properties. Some fires spread rapidly, including one that burned more than 100 acres and prompted road closures due to heavy smoke.
According to a probable cause affidavit, Terrell was seen at multiple fire scenes, often arriving before emergency crews and attempting to put out the flames. In several instances, he reported the fires himself.
Authorities said Terrell later admitted to setting the fires with a cigarette lighter. Investigators reported he said he missed being a firefighter and believed being present at fire scenes might help him return to a department.
The incidents occurred in both Custer and Dewey counties, leading to the additional charge alleging a pattern of criminal activity across county lines.
If convicted, each arson charge carries a potential sentence of up to eight years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. The pattern of criminal offenses charge carries a possible sentence of up to two years.
Court proceedings are pending.
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