A 42-year-old Chico man was arrested July 25th, by Cal Fire arson investigators, assisted by District Attorney investigators on suspicion of starting the Park Fire. Butte County District Attorney Mike Ramsey said the man was arrested after an unknown male was seen pushing a car that was on fire into a gully near the Alligator Hole in upper Bidwell Park shortly before 3:00 p.m. on July 24th. The car went down an embankment approximately 60 feet and burned completely, spreading flames that caused the Park Fire. The male was then seen calmly leaving the area by blending in with the other citizens who were in the area and fleeing the rapidly evolving fire. Cal Fire arson investigators responded immediately, secured the scene, and began to search for clues to the identity of the unknown man. The man was eventually identified and with the help of the DA’s Office, a warrant was issued by a local judge for him early July 25th. He was booked into the Butte County Jail where, pursuant to the warrant, he is being held without bail until his arraignment on Monday of next week. The man’s name will be released later this afternoon. Ramsey said the investigation is ongoing and anyone who has information or was in the Alligator Hole area between the hours of noon and 3:00 p.m. of July 24th., is encouraged to call Cal Fire investigations at (530) 538-7888.
Press Release, July 25, 2024 Butte County District Attorney
