A Reno woman has been arrested in connection with a vegetation fire that broke out Wednesday morning near Crystal Peak Mine in the Dog Valley area of eastern Sierra County.
According to the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the fire on August 5 after receiving a report of smoke visible from a nearby residence. During the investigation, deputies located evidence that led them to identify 50-year-old Sarah Ortstadt of Reno as the person responsible for the fire.
Investigators determined the blaze originated at Ortstadt’s campsite.
Ortstadt was arrested on suspicion of unlawfully causing a fire on forest land under California Penal Code Section 452(c). During the investigation, deputies also reported finding a usable amount of suspected methamphetamine. Authorities said Ortstadt was determined to be under the influence of a controlled substance and was additionally booked on suspicion of being under the influence of a controlled substance and possession of methamphetamine.
She was transported to the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office Jail in Nevada City, where she was booked.
The Sierra County Sheriff’s Office thanked the Tahoe National Forest for assisting with the fire investigation and suppression efforts. The agency also recognized the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and the Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District for their quick response in helping bring the fire under control.
The extent of the fire and any resulting damage were not immediately released.
