The ongoing California wildfires were started in an unusual manner by a 42-year-old man who subsequently appeared to try to disguise his involvement.
The man, who has not been publicly identified, “calmly” left the area, before “blending in” with others who were fleeing the blaze, for which further evacuation orders may yet be made.
Massive Blaze
The fire, currently making its way across the north of California, is the largest California fire of the year so far.
It has already burned across 71,000 acres of Butte County land, and may spread further.
One of Largest in Recent History
Not only is the fire the largest of the year so far, but, even in comparison to previous recent years which were hit with large wildfires, it stands out as particularly severe.
It is the 5th largest fire in the past 3 years and most of the resulting damage has yet to be fully assessed.
Mass Evacuations
The fire, named the Park Fire, has already caused severe disruption to locals as they face evacuation orders across California’s Butte and Tehama counties.
More than 3500 people have already been displaced, and evacuation orders remain in place despite efforts by the emergency services.
Fire Putting Up a Fight
The fire is proving difficult to contain, even with the aid of hundreds of firefighters.
Despite the mass mobilization of the emergency workers, the fire was, as of Thursday, only 3% contained.
Breaching New Ground
The Park Fire is reaching areas previously untouched by wildfires for a long time.
It has moved north towards the Lassen Foothills and the Ishi Wilderness, which may have not seen fires for 100 years.
Bizarre Origins
The story of how the fire started is strange, and not great reading for the alleged fire starter, from Chico, California.
He is said to have pushed a burning car down into a ravine, before abandoning it and attempting to blend in with the fleeing crowd.
Quick Response
The District Attorney’s Office said: “The man was seen calmly leaving the area by blending in with the other citizens who were in the area and fleeing the rapidly evolving fire.”
Unfortunately for the suspect, his actions did not go unnoticed and investigators were quick to begin their investigation into the incident.
Rapid Capture
The DA’s Office continued, in their statement: “Cal Fire arson investigators responded, secured the scene and began to search for clues to identify the unknown man.”
He was picked up on Thursday morning by the police and is now being held without bail.
Fire Rages
Although the crime may have been resolved, the fire rages on across northern California.
As it continues to destroy structures and threaten communities, more evacuation orders may yet be issued.
