Trent W. Schafer, a 21-year-old volunteer firefighter from Kasbeer, entered a not guilty plea in Lee County Circuit Court. Authorities have charged Schafer with allegedly igniting the 700-acre grass fire that swept through the Green River State Wildlife Management Area last Friday.
Investigators say the blaze caused significant damage to local habitats, though no injuries were reported. Schafer’s legal team maintains his innocence as the community awaits further details. The court has scheduled his next pretrial conference for May 7th. The incident has sparked renewed discussion about fire safety and prevention in rural communities.
Schafer is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.