Possible arsonist starting brushfires in Novato

NOVATO, Calif. (KGO) -- Investigators are searching for a possible arsonist after two fires were set in Novato on Friday. The fires started in the afternoon at O'Hair Park and near Miwok Park.

The fire off Oliva Court was too close for comfort for people who live in the area and love their nearby hiking trails. Firefighters responded to the area just after 2 p.m. They worked quickly, keeping the flames to just an eighth of an acre.

Not six minutes later, firefighters had a second fire on their hands at nearby O'Hair Park, off Novato Boulevard. Police and fire investigators say both fires are suspicious, possibly the work of an arsonist.

This is not the first time the area has seen suspicious fires. In May, someone set 13 small blazes just west of the Highway 101 and 37 interchange. In June, two more fires were set near Highway 101 and Lucas Valley Road. Approximately 16 acres were burned in Terra Linda and 50 homes had to be evacuated.

Police have added extra patrols in the area and neighbors are ready and willing to do their part and watch the hills carefully.

If you have any information about any of these fires, you're asked to call the Novato Police Department.