Chico Man Arrested for Starting California's Largest Wildfire of 2023
- A man from Chico has been arrested on suspicion of starting the Park Fire, which has become California's largest wildfire of the year.
- The fire has affected over 124,000 acres in the region.
- Prosecutors are leading the investigation into the incident.
A Chico man has been arrested on suspicion of igniting the Park Fire, which has rapidly become California's largest wildfire this year, consuming over 124,000 acres. Prosecutors reported that the incident occurred Wednesday afternoon when an unidentified man was seen pushing a burning car into a gully near Alligator Hole in upper Bidwell Park. The vehicle rolled down a 60-foot embankment, igniting the fire, while the suspect calmly exited the area, blending in with other park visitors. Following the incident, Cal Fire arson investigators, in collaboration with the Butte County District Attorney's Office, identified the suspect and secured an arrest warrant. Early Thursday morning, 42-year-old Ronnie Dean Stout II was apprehended and booked into jail without bail. Stout is scheduled for arraignment on Monday and has a criminal history that includes two prior "strike" felony convictions, one for lewd acts with a child and another for robbery resulting in great bodily injury. The Park Fire has prompted the evacuation of approximately 3,500 residents, as reported by Governor Gavin Newsom's office. As of Thursday evening, the fire remains only 3% contained, with several homes reported destroyed, although the exact number is still unclear. Alligator Hole, where the fire originated, is a popular summer destination located about six miles east of Chico's city plaza.