SALINE COUNTY – Law enforcement authorities in Saline County including the State Fire Marshal are investigating suspects in connection with an alleged arson fire.

Travis Novak, 23, and Justin Beetch, 24, both of Salina are in custody in connection with the August 4, fire that destroyed thousands of dollars in farm equipment and over 700 bales of alfalfa hay, according to Saline County Undersherrif Roger Soldan.

Authorities say the two ignited a fire that consumed a shed in the 10500 Block of South Gypsum Valley Road that held the hay and farm equipment.

Total loss was estimated at $341,350.