A Montrose County, Colorado, man is facing criminal charges for allegedly starting a forest fire that destroyed more than 7,000 acres while trying to cremate his dog, according to reports.
Brent Garber, 63, is accused of starting the Bucktail Fire on August 1, 2024, and is currently charged with two counts of arson and one count of second degree, according to the local ABC station in Grand Junction, Colorado. It was reported that court documents show that this has happened. Trespassing.
The Bucktail Fire is one of the largest fires in Colorado this year. The Montrose Sheriff's Office said the fire had burned 7,202 acres and was 80% contained by Wednesday with the help of more than 100 firefighters.
The affidavit reportedly indicates Garber was involved in the fire after investigators first discovered where it started.
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In August, a Colorado man caused a forest fire while trying to cremate his dog. (Photo by Don Emmert/VIEWpress)
The location was the dugout, where Gerber allegedly attempted to hold a funeral for his dog, Rocket, the station said.
Investigators found a stone engraved above the dugout entrance that read, “October 2017 to July 2024. Rocket Dog. Rest in Peace, Buddy.”
Gerber allegedly placed the dog in a hole containing wood chips before setting the wood on fire.
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Firefighters spray water on a forest fire. (St. Petersburg)
Investigators also said Gerber threw a spray can into the fire. The can eventually exploded, setting a nearby tree on fire.
After the fire was reported, investigators said an officer saw Garber riding an ATV near the location of the fire.
Police said Garber told them a few days earlier that he was going to bury his dog on private property.
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Police said Lockett was subdued by court order after getting into a fight with another dog.
Garber is scheduled to appear in court Wednesday. He faces three felonies — two counts of arson and one count of second-degree criminal trespass.
