Fire investigators have not pinned down the cause of the wildfire near Bishop Sunday, but Cal Fire Division Chief Roger Thompson does say that the fire was human caused.

Volunteers from Bishop and Big Pine responded as did Cal Fire crews and the Forest Service/BLM. DWP crews also chipped in to help contain this fire to 85 acres.

Chief Thompson explained that often in arson cases there is some sort of device like a cigarette attached to matches, or an accelerant like oil or gas. With the investigation so far, Thompson says that he cant say that this fire was arson, but he wont say that this fire was not arson either.

Accidents do happen of course. While camping and campfires are not allowed on LADWP land, basically the entire floor of the Owens Valley, Thomson explained that the 12 acre fire off Warm Springs Road two weeks ago was caused by a campfire.

Fire officials always stress pouring enough water on a camp fire that it turns the consistency of pancake batter in order to ensure the fire is out.

 

Discover more from Sierra Wave: Eastern Sierra News

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading