A burned body has been discovered inside a home in central California following a wildfire believed to have been sparked by a chainsaw, as police arrested one man. Investigators suspect the fire was ignited by sparks from a chainsaw, authorities announced on Thursday, August 6.
Arrest Made in Connection with Destructive Fires
A 65-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday in relation to the fires that have destroyed seven structures and burnt over 15 square miles (39 square km) of forest in the Sierra Nevada foothills of Calaveras County. Herbert Wayne Smith is accused of "recklessly causing" the inferno on Monday. He told KCRA-TV that he was using a chainsaw to cut some scrap wood when it caught fire.
"I'm so sorry for everything that's happened," Mr Smith said. "This is going to destroy my life, one way or another."
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
It's thought that the fire was caused while "operating equipment capable of producing sparks" without clearing flammable vegetation as required, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Prosecutors will decide whether to press criminal charges.
Investigators will ascertain whether the fire contributed to the death of the individual found in a burned home near the town of Angels Camp, the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office stated.
Wildfires Rage in Washington State
In Washington state, north of California, three major fires continued to rage around the city of Spokane. Officials announced on Thursday that cooler temperatures and less intense winds have enabled firefighters to gain ground against the fires. While at least 800 buildings have been obliterated, thankfully no fatalities have been reported.
