Investigator’s For Colorado Inferno Come To A Startling Conclusion

Authorities in Boulder County, Colorado, have not excluded arson as the possible cause of the wildfire that destroyed thousands of acres and hundreds of homes.

Police said they are investigating all possible causes of last week’s fire, adding that if arson or human negligence were to blame the responsible party would be held accountable.

Nearly 1,000 structures were completely destroyed by the fire across Superior, Louisville, and unincorporated Boulder County, Colorado, according to a preliminary report the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office released Saturday. Over 100 other structures were damaged by the fire, which stretched more than 6,000 acres as historically high winds fueled the fire and spread the blaze.

The fire was the most destructive in the state’s history, but no fatalities were reported as a result of the disaster as of Saturday, although authorities say three people are still reported as missing.

Deputies with the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant on a property Saturday to investigate a tip on the origin of the fire.

“We are actively investigating a number of tips that came in yesterday and last night from the community,” Sheriff Joe Pelle said. “One of those tips has resulted in us executing a search warrant on a property.”

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis said Sunday that the FBI is involved in the investigation of the fire.

“Gov. Jared Polis confirms the FBI is helping investigate the cause of the fire,” reported Colorado Public Radio’s Allison Sherry on Twitter Sunday.

Pelle also noted that the day the fire started was a “red flag day,” meaning there was a burn ban in effect.

“We’re looking into the cause and origin of the fire. If it turns out to be arson or reckless behavior with fire, we’ll take appropriate actions,” said Pelle. “It was a red flag day the day of the fire, so there shouldn’t have been any burning.”