CBS News reports that the Park Fire, one of many wildfires raging in Northern California, grew from a small brush fire in Chico to the largest blaze in the state in less than two days. A man suspected of starting the fire has been arrested.
The fire started Wednesday afternoon (7/24/2024) and as of yesterday (7/26/2024), it has grown to a staggering 239,100 acres (or roughly 373 square miles). Containment is currently at zero percent.
State of California arson investigators arrested a 42-year-old Chico man identified as Ronnie Dean Stout II, who is suspected of starting the wildfire by allegedly pushing a burning car down an embankment in Bidwell Park. A local judge issued an arrest warrant and Stout was booked into the Butte County Jail, where he is being held without bond pending arraignment.
The CBS News article may be read in full HERE.
The Park Fire (and other California wildfires) may be tracked HERE.
This writer is, yet again, amazed at the number of wildfires in California. My own wife has been performing at a music festival in Mendocino, California, and her plans to return to the Bay Area to catch a flight home this week may be hampered due to highway restrictions.
My brothers and sisters, let’s pray that the actions of persons such as Mr. Stout, which were reckless and perhaps intentional, will not result in further damage or death. The burn scars and dead wildlife are sickening enough, but the loss of human lives would be even worse. Let’s also seek God’s protection and favor upon all of the front line firefighters and support staff, who daily put themselves into harm’s way for the sake of others.
The bible tells us that God is always faithful and that we have the assurance of His protection and mercy:
Psalm 18:30 (NLT)
“God’s way is perfect. All the Lord’s promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to [H]im for protection.”
Psalm 118:1 (NKJV)
Praise to God for His Everlasting Mercy
“Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.”
