Two Juveniles Cited for Fire Inside La Pine State Park

Deschutes Co. Sheriff's Office - 07/03/18


On June 3rd, 2018, Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and US Forest Service fire crews responded to a fire inside the La Pine State Park. The fire was controlled at approximately ¼ acre and mop up lasted through June 4th. ODF teams conducted regular checks of the fire scene throughout the month.

On June 28th, a second smaller fire was reported within the burn area of the first and ODF and US Forest Service units responded, along with deputies from the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO). It was determined the fires were human caused, though it was unknown if the second fire was caused by a flare up from the first fire or if a new fire had occurred.

On June 29th, ODF crews conducting follow up observed the possible suspects in the area and contacted law enforcement. DCSO and Oregon State Police units responded to the area, however the subjects left prior to law enforcement arrival. During an extensive area search, a DCSO deputy located the two subjects, identified as a 14 year old male and a 16 year old male from La Pine. Based on the investigation and interviews, it is believed the two juveniles had built a fort in the area and were burning pine needles and other debris inside the fort. The two juveniles then failed to property extinguish the fire before leaving the area.

Both juveniles were cited in lieu of custody for Reckless Burning (ORS 164.335) and Criminal Mischief I (164.365), then released to responsible guardians.

Release Date:  July 3, 2018 Released by: Sgt. William Bailey – Public Information Officer

Occurred: June 29, 2018

Location: La Pine State Park

Suspect #1: 16 year old juvenile male from La Pine

Suspect #2: 14 year old juvenile male from La Pine