Sulphur Springs Man Arrested After Trash Fire Allegedly Spreads to Neighboring Properties

HOPKINS COUNTY, Texas – A Sulphur Springs-area man was arrested Monday after authorities say a trash fire he allegedly started spread beyond his property and caused damage to multiple nearby properties.

According to an affidavit for probable cause filed by Hopkins County authorities, 43-year-old Carl Featherston was taken into custody on February 2, 2026, and charged with Reckless Damage (Class C).

The incident occurred along FM 2506, where the Hopkins County Fire Department was dispatched in reference to a reported grass fire. Investigators say that upon arrival, firefighters discovered a burning trash pile that included household items such as a mattress and other debris.

At the time of the fire, winds in the area were reportedly blowing at approximately 14 miles per hour, with gusts reaching up to 21 miles per hour. Those conditions, according to the affidavit, allowed the flames to spread quickly beyond the original burn site.

Authorities say the fire ultimately crossed property lines and caused damage to four neighboring properties.

Witnesses at the scene told investigators they observed the fire being ignited and later saw Featherston standing nearby as it spread. A second witness also reported seeing the suspect near the burn pile while the fire moved onto adjacent land.

Based on the investigation, Featherston was placed under arrest and transported to the Hopkins County Jail, where he was booked on the listed charge.

As with all criminal cases, the charge against Featherston is an allegation, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.