POST FALLS, Idaho — An 80-acre wildfire that prompted Level 3 evacuations in Post Falls Friday was started by an unattended campfire, according to Post Falls police.
The Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) Investigators determined that the Parkway Fire near Q'emiln Park was started due to a campfire that was not put out correctly. IDL notified the police department, at which point a criminal investigation was started. Police are now asking the public for any information about who may have left the campfire unattended.
"The negligence of the person or persons involved have caused great damage to a city park that will take years to recover from," police said in a statement. "The Post Falls Police Department is committed to thoroughly investigating this fire and holding the person or persons responsible for this negligent act."
On Friday afternoon, crews responded to a large wildfire burning near Q'emiln Park in Post Falls. IDL says the fire began burning in a steep, heavily wooded area above the Spokane River. Level 1 (GET READY), Level 2 (BE READY TO LEAVE) and Level 3 (GO NOW) evacuations were issued for homes surrounding the park as crews worked to put out the flames.
As of 8 a.m. on August 8, the Parkway Fire was 100% contained and was held to 80 acres. No structures have been lost but officials estimate 20-30 homes were evacuated at the time of evacuations.
On Sunday, the Idaho State Fire Marshal's Office asked the public for any information about the ignition of the Parkway Fire. Fire marshals also said they believe the fire was "a criminal act." The following day, Post Falls police said they, too, are investigating the fire as a criminal act.
“From the moment the Parkway Fire was discovered, it was all hands on deck,” said incident commander Nate Rogers. “Kootenai County Fire & Rescue, the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, Kootenai County Emergency Management, Post Falls Police Department and so many more contributed to this success, saving lives and property.”
Heavy air attack played a pivotal role in giving firefighters the time and physical space they needed to save structures. “Aircraft provided by the U.S. Forest Service in the first hours of the attack were especially helpful,” Rogers explained.
Police say the campfire was located a quarter mile north or West Riverview Drive in Post Falls. Anyone with information about who may have started a campfire in that area is asked to call the Post Falls Police Department at (208) 773-3517. Tips can also be emailed to detectives@postfallspolice.gov.
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