Man Arrested for Instigating Massive California Wildfire

A man, Ronnie Dean Stout II, has been arrested for allegedly starting the Park Fire in California by pushing a flaming car into a gully. The fire rapidly spread to 125,000 acres, forcing thousands to evacuate. The fire is only 3% contained and is the largest in California this year.

On Thursday, authorities arrested Ronnie Dean Stout II, suspected of igniting a wildfire that forced thousands to evacuate. Stout was reportedly seen pushing a flaming car into a gully, sparking the Park Fire, which swelled to 125,000 acres by Thursday afternoon.

The 42-year-old suspect remains jailed without bond. His arraignment is on Monday, although specific charges have yet to be announced. The fire, the largest in California this year, is currently only 3% contained. High winds and lightning strikes threaten to exacerbate the situation.

Meanwhile, the Durkee Fire in Oregon has scorched 268,000 acres. Scientists urge global leaders to reduce fossil fuel reliance to mitigate climate change's catastrophic effects, including worsening wildfires.

(With inputs from agencies.)