Cops arrest firebug accused of starting Fred Mountain Fire that merged into Bug Fire on California-Nevada border

By New York Post (U.S.) | Created at 2026-08-12 14:15:58 | Updated at 2026-08-12 16:16:35 2 hours ago

A firebug has been arrested for allegedly igniting one of two fires that merged near the California-Nevada border and developed into a raging inferno.

Christine Mitchell, 47, was detained for starting the Fred Mountain Fire, the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office announced Tuesday evening.

Mitchell allegedly confessed after investigators said she intentionally started multiple blazes near the 1300 block of Freds Mountain Road in Nevada.

Christine Mitchell was arrested on suspicion of intentionally starting the Fred Mountain Fire near Freds Mountain Road in Nevada. Washoe County Sheriff's Office

Police arrested her on suspicion of third-degree arson and possession of a controlled substance.

“Starting another fire while crews were already committed to an active wildfire placed additional strain on emergency resources and unnecessarily threatened additional portions of our community,” Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam said.

Multiple Sparks Fire units work to support containment efforts at the Bug Fire and Fred Fire. Instagram/@washoesheriff

Multiple Sparks Fire units work to support containment efforts at the Bug Fire and Fred Fire. Residents are advised to stay out of the affected areas and remain alert for emergency notifications. Facebook/@SparksFirefighters

The Bug Fire and Fred Mountain Fire, burning north of Reno, Nevada, combined into a single blaze Tuesday as scorching heat, bone-dry vegetation and gusty winds fueled the explosive growth.

The blaze now spans nearly 58,000 acres, mostly in Nevada. The fire was also 4% contained at the last update Tuesday.

Firefighters are scrambling to build containment lines around the northern, eastern and southern edges of the sprawling burn.

The Nevada National Guard and military police have joined federal crews and firefighters from Las Vegas and California in battling the flames, according to KOLO 8 News Now.

Reno and Sparks firefighters continue to assist on the Bug Fire. X/@RenoFirefighter

Two people — including a firefighter — have been injured and released after treatment. Facebook/@SparksFirefighters

Several homes have been destroyed, although officials are still assessing the damage. Two people — including a firefighter — have been injured and released after treatment.

Gov. Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency for portions of Washoe County and the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony on Monday.

The governor’s office said the emergency declaration will remain in effect through Aug. 17, but could be terminated sooner if conditions improve, according to KTNV.

The investigation into the Fred Mountain Fire is ongoing.