Two people arrested after illegal fireworks sparked brushfire in Battlement Mesa

Two people were arrested Friday on multiple charges after starting a brush fire while lighting illegal fireworks, a news release from the Garfield County Sheriff's Office said.

First responders arrived on the scene of a one-acre brush fire around noon in the Lodgepole Circle area of ​​Battlement Mesa.

“The fire destroyed the fences and several houses were in danger,” the press release said. “Firefighters and firefighters were able to extinguish the fire quickly.”

During their investigation into the fire, police determined that it was started by illegal fireworks. They then discovered illegal fireworks and nearly 17 grams of methamphetamine during a search.

“Two subjects were arrested on multiple charges, including fourth-degree arson and possession of a Schedule II controlled substance,” the release states.

The SPEAR Task Force, Paratrooper Police Department, Grand Valley Fire Protection District, Colorado River Fire Department and Garfield County Emergency Communications Authority assisted Sheriff's Office deputies of Garfield County.

The sheriff's office reiterates in its release that fireworks illegal under state law are illegal even on private property. Illegal fireworks include firecrackers, any form of fireworks propelled into the air and others “unless you are a licensed professional with a valid permit.”

Fireworks are still prohibited on federal territory, the press release added.