An unattended campfire “got out of control and ignited several surrounding trees” at a dispersed campsite in Summit County in recent days, with a quick response from authorities preventing possible tragedy and a follow-up investigation resulting in an arrest.

According to a report from the Summit County Sheriff’s Office, the campfire was discovered near Buffalo Cabin Trail, which is located under Buffalo Mountain and just west of Silverthorne.

Deputies arrived on the scene and were able to extinguish the flames, described to have burnt a space that was about 10 square feet in size.

No one was present at the site when deputies arrived, but a suspect in the case was found when another campfire was reported in the same area the following day. Contact was made with that camper, who reportedly confessed to starting multiple fires over previous days, including the one that spread out of control and was stamped out by deputies.

The camper was arrested on multiple related charges and transported to the Summit County Detention Facility.

Per the Summit County Government website, the county transitioned to stage 1 fire restrictions on August 29, previously at stage 2 restrictions. The exact date when the campfire mentioned in this case grew out-of-control was not included in a press release on the matter, though even at stage 1 restrictions, all open outdoor fires are prohibited.

Following all fire bans and restrictions in Colorado is crucial, as wildfires can be devastating and dangerous. It’s important to be aware of what local rules are in place, as these can vary greatly by location and are subject to rapid change. When fires are allowed, create them responsibly by following the guidelines of Leave No Trace.

All suspects are to be considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.