Watch CBS News

Man Accused Of Starting Crystal Fire Pleads Guilty

FORT COLLINS, Colo. (CBS4) - The man accused of starting the Crystal wildfire in Larimer County has now changed his plea to guilty.

Thomas Howie was in the middle of his trial for fourth-degree arson Wednesday when he changed his plea. He could get 2 to 6 years in prison.

The Crystal Fire destroyed 13 homes and more than 3,000 acres west of Horsetooth Reservoir.

Thomas Howie
Thomas Howie (credit: Larimer County Sheriff)

Howie will be sentenced in February.

Wildfire Resources

- Visit CBSDenver.com's Wildfire Resources section.

- Read recent Wildfire stories.

Wildfire Photo Galleries

- See images from the most destructive wildfire (Fourmile Fire) and largest wildfire (Hayman Fire) in Colorado history.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.