A 65-year-old man arrested in connection with the massive Gann Fire in Calaveras County, California, told authorities he accidentally started the blaze while attempting to earn money for his wife's birthday celebration. Herbert Wayne Smith of Spring Valley was taken into custody on suspicion of recklessly starting the fire, which has scorched over 10,000 acres.
According to a statement from Cal Fire, investigators found that Smith was operating equipment capable of producing sparks in vegetation without adhering to fire prevention requirements. He was reportedly using a saw to cut metal scraps for sale when the fire ignited. Authorities noted that he was not clearing flammable vegetation and did not have firefighting tools readily available.
Smith expressed remorse for his actions, stating in an interview with KCRA, "This is going to destroy my life, one way or another. I’m so sorry for everything that’s happened. That was never my intent. I was just out there trying to get some money together, and it turned into this."
Criminal charges against Smith had not yet been filed in Calaveras Superior Court as of Wednesday afternoon. Cal Fire has submitted its investigation findings to the Calaveras District Attorney’s Office for review and potential prosecution.
The Gann Fire, which prompted evacuation orders and warnings for residents, has been exacerbated by triple-digit temperatures and critically dry conditions. Firefighting efforts have been challenged by the heatwave, which is expected to continue through the weekend. Despite the difficult conditions, Cal Fire reported a steady increase in containment, though crews remain on high alert.
