Man Who Tried to Cremate Dog Started Colorado Wildfire, Authorities Say

Mar. 15, 2025

Bucktail Fire in western Colorado on Aug. 1, 2024.Photo:Telluride Fire Protection District via AP

Telluride Fire Protection District via AP

One man has been arrested after allegedly trying to cremate his dog and then starting a wildfire, named the Bucktail Fire, in Nucla, Colo., in early August, according to theAssociated Press,The Denver PostandThe Montrose Daily Press.

The commander then met with state fire investigators and discovered a dug-out cave in the spot where the fire originated. A partially burned dog’s body was found in the cave, along with a large rock with the words “Oct. 2017 July 2024, Rocket Dog, Rest in Peace Buddy” in bone glued on the surface, according to the outlet.

Montrose County wildfire map.Montrose County Sheriff’s Department

Montrose County Sheriff’s Department

Garber lived in a camper near the fire’s initial starting point. Witnesses later told investigators that Garber told them he accidentally started the fire.

Stock image of people looking at a forest fire.Getty

Getty

Garber appeared at the Montrose County Courthouse on Wednesday, Sept. 25, according toUSA Today.His preliminary demand hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 23.

The Bucktail Fire, one of Colorado’s largest fires this year, caused around $300,000 in damage across public and private property. It burned more than 7,200 acres. No evacuations were issued, and no injuries were reported, perUSA Today.

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The Montrose County Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for more information on Friday.

source: people.com