Reward for Arson Information

$25K Reward Targets Arson Suspect in July 4 Blaze

The Douglas County Commission voted to offer the $25,000 reward to help investigators track down whoever started the fire. The reward covers information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the person or persons responsible, according to The Olympian.

Douglas County Sheriff Tyler Caille said he is confident investigators will find the culprit. The fire's origin point near U.S. Highway 97 and the Columbia River crossing gives investigators a clear area to focus on, Bellingham Herald reported.

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Nearly 10,000 Acres Burned, One Person Killed

The Chelan Hills fire tore through close to 10,000 acres during and after the Fourth of July holiday. The fire killed one person, though officials have not released further details about that death, according to The News Tribune.

The fire spread fast enough to force evacuations across nearby communities. Residents and travelers also faced road closures in the area around the fire's path along the Columbia River corridor, Tri-City Herald reported.

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Fire Fully Contained, Evacuations Now Lifted

Fire crews have reached 100% containment on the Chelan Hills fire. With the fire under control, Douglas County lifted all evacuation orders and road closures, allowing residents to return home, according to The Olympian.

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Sheriff Expresses Confidence in Finding Those Responsible

Sheriff Tyler Caille publicly backed investigators working the case. He expressed confidence in their ability to find the culprits and bring them to justice, Bellingham Herald reported. The $25,000 reward is meant to encourage the public to come forward with any tips that could help crack the case.

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