Suspect Set Several Fires, Including Burning His Own Initials Into A Tree: Aberdeen Police

ABERDEEN, MD — A series of fires set June 20, 2023, in Aberdeen that included the burning of the initials "BG" into a tree has led police to arrest Bryan Keith Gilley, 45, of Aberdeen in connection to the incident.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives started investigating a series of fires on June 20, 2023, involving woods, trees and train tracks in the area of 200 S. Post Road in Aberdeen. Investigators determined that someone had used a handheld propane torch to burn these items, including the burning of the initials of "BG" into a tree. During the investigation, a nearby construction company employee identified Gilley of Aberdeen as a trespasser on the property, police said.

Investigators couldn't find Gilley and issued a warrant for his arrest. He was found at a home in the 3500 block of Carsins Run Road. Gilley also may be linked to other fires set in the area in May 2023 and June 2023, police said.

Gilley has been charged with maliciously or negligently setting fire to woods and brush, second-degree malicious burning, and trespassing on posted property.