DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — An Iowa volunteer firefighter whose father is the fire chief is now facing seven charges of arson.

Tama County Sheriff Dennis Kucera says investigators believe 18-year-old Justin Anderson set a string of several fires on rural properties between March and May.

Thee homes and a barn were damaged in the fires though the buildings appeared to be vacant when they burned.

Kucera says the investigation began in March after signs of arson were recognized. Investigators found a pattern in the fires, and are now checking to see if Anderson could be linked to any other fires.

Anderson remained in jail Thursday in lieu of $50,000 bond.

“It’s very disturbing,” said Kucera. “It’s tough for everybody having to investigate emergency responder.”

Kucera says they are still investigating, but at this point the State Fire Marshal is looking at Anderson as the chief suspect.