Washoe County Sheriff's Office announced Tuesday evening the arrest of Christine Mitchell, 47, in connection with the Fred Mountain Fire. Investigators allege Mitchell intentionally started multiple fires near Freds Mountain Road in Nevada, according to a statement from the sheriff's office.
Mitchell faces charges of third-degree arson and possession of a controlled substance. Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam stated that starting a new fire while crews were engaged with an existing wildfire placed a significant strain on emergency resources and endangered the community.
The Fred Mountain Fire and the Bug Fire, located north of Reno, Nevada, merged on Tuesday amid high temperatures, dry vegetation, and strong winds, contributing to their rapid expansion. The combined blaze has consumed nearly 58,000 acres, primarily in Nevada, and was 4% contained as of the latest update Tuesday.
Firefighting efforts are focused on establishing containment lines along the northern, eastern, and southern perimeters of the fire. The Nevada National Guard, military police, federal crews, and firefighters from Las Vegas and California are involved in battling the blaze. Two individuals, including one firefighter, sustained injuries that did not require further treatment.
Several homes have been destroyed, though damage assessments are ongoing. Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency for parts of Washoe County and the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony on Monday. The state of emergency is expected to remain in effect until August 17, with the possibility of early termination if conditions improve.
The investigation into the cause of the Fred Mountain Fire is continuing.