Marshal On Green Mountain Fires: 'We've Eliminated All Natural Causes'
LAKEWOOD, Colo. (CBS4) – Monday's fire on Green Mountain in Lakewood, as well as others, appear to be suspicious, investigators say.
In total, five fires occurred on Green Mountain in November.
All but one were an acre or less in size.
"We have eliminated all the possible natural causes, which leads us to believe human behavior is involved," said Bruce Kral, fire marshal of the West Metro Fire Protection District. "I would say every five years or so, it wouldn't be unusual to have a fire on Green Mountain. But, five in a month is unusual."
Monday's blaze burned nearly 100 acres, forcing homeowners to evacuate.
No structures were burned and no one was injured in that fire, or the four others, but because of dry conditions and gusty winds, there is a concern additional fires could be worse.
"Turn yourself in. Let us know who you are," Kral said. "Let us know how we can help you stop this behavior."
West Metro Fire Rescue investigators are asking anyone who sees anything suspicious, or knows anything about the fires, to contact them at (303) 987-7111.
Callers can remain anonymous.
Authorities plan to increase patrol of the region until a suspect is located.
Wildfire Resources
- Visit CBSDenver.com's Living With Wildfire section.
Wildfire Photo Galleries
- See images from the most destructive wildfires (Black Forest, Waldo Canyon, High Park and Fourmile) and largest wildfire (Hayman) in Colorado history.
Dillon Thomas is a reporter at CBS4 and a Colorado native. He believes everyone has a story, and would love to share yours! You can find more of his stories by following him on Twitter, @DillonMThomas.
