An 18-year-old from Kent has been arrested for manslaughter and arson in connection with a deadly July 4 fire, according to a statement from Douglas County Sheriff Tyler Caille on Thursday.
The arrest follows an investigation into the Chelan Hills Fire, which was sparked when illegal fireworks being set off from the back of a truck landed in roadside brush.
The fire burned approximately 15.6 square miles and destroyed more than 100 structures, including 19 homes. One person, identified as 69-year-old Orondo resident Robert Lister, died after his vehicle slid off the road and was consumed by the flames.
Sheriff Caille stated that authorities are also seeking arrest warrants for five other individuals. All five suspects are over the age of 18 and are considered complicit in the crimes. Caille described the incident as complete recklessness that resulted in the loss of Mr. Lister's life and significant property damage.
In a statement released during a news conference, the family of Robert Lister said the arrest would allow them to begin healing, noting that his life was taken too soon.
Washington has experienced a severe fire season, with blazes scorching more than 1,125 square miles across the state.
