May 30 (UPI) — A Washington man started a wildfire while he was burning an American flag blanket, officials said this week.
When firefighters in Ephrata, Wash., arrived on the scene Sunday, five acres were already ablaze, the Grant County Fire Department said in a statement. They were able to contain the fire before it caused any structure damage.
“The fire ignited after a man tried to burn an American flag blanket which then spread to wildland,” the statement said. “No matter your political views, we think it’s safe to say we can all agree starting a wildfire is no good! Ephrata Police are investigating.”
According to KREM-TV, Eric Castro was cited for starting the fire, but he denied doing so.
Ephrata police are also considering arson charges.
