A large brush fire burned several acres in Provo's Slate Canyon after fireworks were ignited south of Y Mountain. The fire occurred near the trailhead area north of the 2025 Buckley Fire site.
Flames from the blaze were visible from LaVell Edwards Stadium during the Stadium of Fire concert on Saturday, July 4, 2026.
Provo Fire Department crews were called to the area at approximately 10:40 p.m. on Saturday. Captain Jeanie Atherton of the Provo Fire Department stated that three brush trucks were patrolling nearby, which allowed for an arrival time within four minutes.
Upon the arrival of crews, half an acre of land had already burned. The fire eventually grew to a total of five acres before firefighters achieved containment. Crews stayed on the scene to monitor for potential flare-ups.
Captain Atherton noted that favorable weather and low winds provided time to manage the flames, but emphasized that fire danger remains high because of extremely dry conditions.
The fire was caused by fireworks being lit in a restricted area, occurring during a citywide ban on personal fireworks intended to mitigate increased fire danger.
Witnesses at the Stadium of Fire fireworks show reported seeing the fire start. One witness, Syd Fullformer, stated that if firefighters had not responded quickly, the fire would have spread further.
Provo fire officials requested that anyone with information, including photos or videos, contact investigators. Information can be sent via email to fireprevention@provo.gov or by calling 801-852-6321.
