After an extensive and lengthy investigation, the Maries County Sheriff's Department has announced the arrest of  Gary Martin Travers Jr. of Jefferson City on charges stemming from a fire that injured six Vienna volunteer firemen on Aug. 16, 2019.

According to the statement released today, Prosecutor Tony Skouby has charged Travers with six counts of Assault 2nd Degree —  special victim, a class B felony, and one count of Arson 2nd Degree, resulting in a serious, injury also a class B felony. These Class B Felonies carry a possible sentence of 5-15 years for each offense for a possible maximum sentence of 95 years.

The arrest took place this morning and members of the sheriff's office were assisted by the Jefferson City Police Department at Travers' residence.

Travers remains in the Maries County Jail on a no-bond warrant issued by Judge Kerry G. Rowden. 

"This investigation has taken a toll on the members of our office, but I am glad to finally bring some closure to the firemen who put their lives on the line for us," said Maries County Sheriff Chris Heitman. "These firemen volunteer every day for our safety and I am truly thankful for their service."

"It’s been a long investigation,” Heitman said. "It’s still ongoing. There may be more arrests later. There are more people involved.”