Man Who Started Southwest Idaho Wildfire to be Fined
BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Authorities say a mountain biker who started a 73-acre wildfire in southwest Idaho after lighting his toilet paper on fire could be faced with all or part of the costs of extinguishing the blaze.
The Idaho Statesman reports U.S. Bureau of Land Management officials say the costs will likely total between $50,000 and $75,000, but they could end up being higher.
Officials say the cyclist, who hasn't been named, had stopped to defecate in a ravine and tried to burn his toilet paper when the fire got out of hand.
The July 22 fire in the Hulls Gulch area required several agencies to contain. Four air tankers and three helicopters were also utilized.
Officials say the biker's side of the story will be considered in determining the fine.