Herbert Wayne Smith Arrested for Allegedly Causing the Gann Fire in Calaveras County
Herbert Wayne Smith was arrested on Monday evening for charges related to causing the Gann Fire in Calaveras County. The fire, which ignited near Hogan Dam and Gann roads, has burned over 9,300 acres and forced the evacuation of 1,473 residents. Smith, who was using a saw to cut scraps for his birthday, stated he did not intend to ignite the flames and expressed remorse for the destruction. Cal Fire officials reported that the fire has reached 10% containment. More than 1,500 personnel are currently combating the blaze, utilizing helicopters and dozers to navigate the steep and rugged terrain. The Calaveras County Unified School District has closed schools for Wednesday due to poor air quality from the smoke. The state has secured a Fire Management Assistance Grant from FEMA to help cover 75% of fire suppression costs. Evacuation shelters have been established in Valley Springs, providing housing for residents and domesticated animals.