Above: Aftermath of fire
Photos courtesy of Butte County District Attorney’s Office
Ronnie Dean Stout II
Authorities in Butte County have reportedly arrested an individual as the primary suspect in connection with the Park Fire.
In a press release, Butte County District Attorney Mike Ramsey identified the suspect as Ronnie Dean Stout II, 42, of Chico.
According to Ramsey, a man was allegedly seen pushing a burning car into a gully near the Alligator Hole in upper Bidwell Park shortly before 3 p.m. on Wednesday, July 24.
The car, completely engulfed in flames, descended approximately 60 feet down an embankment, igniting the fire, Ramsey said.
The suspect was allegedly then seen leaving the area by blending in wit others fleeing from the fire, which rapidly spread.
The fire has since become California’s largest fire of the year, according to the Washington Post.
Arson investigators soon identified the suspect as Stout.
Authorities issued an arrest warrant for Stout, who was taken into custody the next day. He remains in custody without bail.
Stout’s arraignment has reportedly been scheduled for Monday, July 29.
Stout has two prior felony convictions from 2001 and 2002, which could result in a “third” strike if he is found guilty, according to the District Attorney.
