In a recent incident that has garnered community attention, 28-year-old Cameron Griffin stands charged after being apprehended in connection with a fire near Peppercorn Hill. According to a social media post by the Upton Police Department, Griffin was taken into custody on January 22 at the scene of the fire located along Crockett Road. Facing allegations of unlawful burning, disorderly conduct, and disturbing the peace, Griffin’s charges also encompass child endangerment due to the presence of a child in his vehicle during the incident.
An off-duty firefighter, potentially putting his own safety on the line, identified as Firefighter/EMT Matthew Kerr by Upton Fire Chief Michael Marchand, took immediate action upon noticing the blaze. Kerr's quick response and strategic positioning of his vehicle not only impeded Griffin’s escape but also facilitated his subsequent arrest. “Matt didn’t hesitate to respond to what could have grown to a significant brush fire,” Chief Marchand told the Upton Police Department. “Once at the scene, his decisive action helped Upton Police take the suspect into custody and likely end this spree of incendiary fires.”
The recent event marks the latest in a series of fires plaguing the Peppercorn Hill area, with a worrisome frequency noted by local authorities. At least five fires were reported in a span of two days in late July 2025, and another earlier this year, on January 13. The investigations into these incidents have involved the Upton and Milford police and fire departments, the Department of Conservation & Recreation, and the State Police Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit, linked to the State Fire Marshal’s office. Investigators, through the diligent examination of evidence, plan to seek further charges related to these fires, all of which have threatened the Peppercorn Hill Conservation Area.
"Upton Police and our law enforcement partners in Milford take great satisfaction in this arrest," said Upton Police Chief Palmieri in a social media post. "Any fire can be dangerous, but especially one in an outdoor setting frequented by residents and visitors who deserve to enjoy our natural resources," he further commented on the gravity of such incidents and the relief accompanying the apprehension of a suspect.
