San Juan County authorities have charged 68-year-old Scott Carrier with several misdemeanors related to the Deer Creek Fire, a blaze that scorched upwards of 17,724 acres and prompted evacuations. According to ABC4, Carrier, from Salt Lake City, could face consequences for reckless burning damage, abandoning a fire, and recklessly causing a catastrophe. These allegations come after the fire, which began on July 10 and was not contained until August 11, racked up an estimated $24 million in damages.
The San Juan County Sheriff's Office has stated that the fire was human-caused, having identified two origin points on Carrier's property near Old La Sal. As KUTV reports, investigators found a camp trailer containing a lighter, lighter fluid, and a gas can, alongside burnt paper towels outside that were believed to be linked to the fire's ignition. In addition to the misdemeanors, Carrier is also charged with violating a fire restriction order in a closed area; these restrictions were established under the Stage 1 fire limitations, which were in effect at the time of the fire.
Carrier has admitted to burning sagebrush on his land during the winter, but the circumstances surrounding the ignition of the Deer Creek Fire seem to indicate a more recent event. A burn pile with evidence of recent water application and found remains of burnt paper towels suggests the fire may have started there, according to KSL. These findings suggest the argument made by police in court documents, stating, "The investigation revealed that the fire was abandoned or left unattended, which constitutes reckless burning. The fire escaped the burn pile, resulting in a large wildfire and significant property damage, meeting the legal definition of causing a catastrophe," as per KUTV.
