The Multi-Agency Investigation Team wants any information citizens can provide. Please call with any information about activity, individuals, or vehicles seen on Cascade Timberlands property in the days leading up to the fire.
After learning that the most recent fire from yesterday was determined to be suspicious, Sheriff Larry Blanton and Deschutes County have added to the reward. The Sheriff and Deschutes County have added $5000 to the reward and the City of Bend also contributed $5000. Taylor Northwest contributed $2500 to the effort last night. With Cascade Timberlands $2000 contribution, this brings the total reward to $14,500 to anyone with information that leads to a successful conviction of the person or persons responsible.
Anyone with information that could help identify the suspects is asked to contact the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 1-877-876-8477 (TIPS).
Sheriff Larry Blanton stated, “We are concerned about our citizens and given the fact this latest fire is suspicious and human caused we need the persons responsible located and held accountable. Our community has endured trauma as a result of this fire and the taxpayers have been burdened by its cost. Their lives have been disrupted, community services have been disrupted, government agency employees have been exposed to dangerous conditions while working this fire and I truly hope this reward encourages anyone with information to come forward. The public are the eyes and ears to provide information for a successful investigation and effective public safety. Report suspicious activity because if it doesn’t look right, it probably isn’t.”
Sheriff Blanton added, “The fires are suspicious in nature and the ongoing investigation indicates suspicion of potential arson.”
“The consequences from these fires could have been catastrophic for the city,” said City Manager Eric King. “It’s important that we find the cause and who’s responsible for starting these fires and a reward contribution from the city is the responsible thing to do.”
If Citizens see suspicious activity or something that doesn’t look right, we encourage them to report it to Deschutes County 9-1-1.
