- California suspect in court accused of starting huge wildfire
- He allegedly pushed a burning car into a ravine, igniting the blaze
- The fire, now the sixth largest in state history, has destroyed 109 buildings and remains only 12% contained
- He did not speak or enter a plea during his court appearance and was ordered to be held without bail
California suspect in court accused of starting huge wildfire
Ronnie Stout, 42, appeared in court on Monday, accused of starting the Park Fire, which has ravaged over 370,000 acres and forced thousands from their homes in Northern California. Stout allegedly pushed a burning car into a ravine, igniting the blaze. The fire, now the sixth largest in state history, has destroyed 109 buildings and remains only 12% contained. Despite the extensive damage, no injuries or fatalities have been reported.
Stout did not speak or enter a plea during his court appearance and was ordered to be held without bail by Judge Kristen Lucena. The Park Fire, fueled by high temperatures and strong winds, is one of over 100 wildfires currently burning across the West Coast, causing widespread destruction and evacuations.
Meanwhile, Canada is also grappling with more than 800 active wildfires, including a significant one in Alberta that has devastated about a third of the town of Jasper and continues to threaten Jasper National Park.
The #ParkFire is currently the biggest fire in the state and continues to pose challenges. Monday we sent an additional engine strike team to support the fire fight. We have sent 10 engines, dozers, hand crews, a helicopter and 15 other personnel to support operations. pic.twitter.com/k24NiWZo3E
— CAL FIRE LNU (@CALFIRELNU) July 30, 2024