Douglas County Sheriff's Office Arrests 18-Year-Old Kent Man for Starting Deadly Chelan Hills Fire
An 18-year-old man from Kent was arrested on September 2 as the primary suspect responsible for igniting the Chelan Hills Fire. The fire began on July 4, 2026, and burned approximately 10,000 acres, destroying more than 100 structures, including several homes. The fire resulted in the death of 69-year-old Robert M. Lister, who was found inside a vehicle that had slid off the road and was consumed by the fire. The Douglas County Sheriff's Office identified Robert M. Lister as a resident of Orondo. The suspect was booked into the Chelan County Regional Justice Center on charges of first-degree arson, first-degree manslaughter, first-degree malicious mischief, and six counts of third-degree assault. The Douglas County Sheriff's Office plans to hold a press conference on Thursday at 11 a.m. to provide further details on the investigation.
Sources
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18-year-old arrested in deadly Chelan Hills Fire
FOX 13 Seattle
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Authorities identify man found dead in vehicle after Chelan Hills Fire
The Wenatchee World
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Victim found dead inside car during Chelan Hills Fire identified
KOMO