Man Convicted of Arson for Starting California’s Fourth-Largest Wildfire
Ronnie Dean Stout II was convicted of arson for intentionally starting the Park Fire near Upper Bidwell Park in Chico on July 24, 2024. This fire became the fourth-largest wildfire in California history.
Sacramento Stockton Modesto, CA, July 24, 2026 —
Ronnie Dean Stout II has been convicted of arson for intentionally starting the Park Fire, which occurred on July 24, 2024, near Upper Bidwell Park in Chico, California. The fire rapidly escalated, ultimately becoming the fourth-largest wildfire in the state’s recorded history.
Details regarding the conviction, including the specific court and sentencing date, were not immediately available. The U.S. Forest Service and Cal Fire were among the agencies that responded to the blaze.
The Park Fire burned an extensive area, impacting thousands of acres. The investigation by fire officials led to the identification of Stout as the individual responsible for igniting the flames. The cause of the fire was determined to be arson.
The designation of the Park Fire as the fourth-largest in California history underscores the significant scale and destructive potential of the incident. Such large wildfires can have profound environmental and economic consequences, including damage to natural habitats, destruction of property, and disruption of local communities.
Further information on the legal proceedings against Ronnie Dean Stout II is expected to be released as the case progresses.
Story summarized from the original created by Ken Allard on fox40.com, see more information here.
