U.S. Forest Service suspects arson on Manti-LaSal National Forest

PRICE, Utah — The U.S. Forest Service is investigating a string of fires that sparked near Sanpete County between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. Sunday. Authorities report 11 fires were started along Skyline Drive on the Manti-LaSal National Forest between South Tent Mountain and Potter’s Canyon. 

 

All fires have been contained by firefighters. 

The fires come right after a red flag warning was issued throughout the state for Labor Day weekend. 

Authorities report four of the fires did not spread past its starting point, noting they had “minimal potential.” Five of the fires had slightly more potential but were all contained, burning one-tenth of an acre. 

Two fires were slightly bigger — categorized as moderate potential — burning approximately one-quarter to one-half acre. 

The Forest Service is asking the public to avoid the area until they reach 100% containment. 

Authorities said they expect crews to be working on containment over the holiday weekend, looking to wrap things up Monday. An investigation on the cause is ongoing. 

The U.S. Forest Service is asking anyone with information to contact officials at 775-355-5337.