FBI Offers $10,000 Reward for Any Info on the Deadly New Mexico Wildfires

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is offering a whopping $10,000 reward for any credible information that leads to the arrests and convictions of the individuals or groups who might have been responsible for starting the deadly wildfires in New Mexico.

Information Sought for Two Major Fires

According to the FBI Albuquerque Division, their interest is particularly focused on two major fires, the South Fork Fire and the Salt Fire, both of which began near Ruidoso, New Mexico on June 17. These wildfires have since ravaged approximately 1,400 structures, leading to the displacement of over 8,000 residents.

The fires were disastrous in their expanse, with the South Fork Fire burning through 17,551 acres and the Salt Fire scorching another 7,775 acres by Sunday morning.

FBI Assistance and Public Appeals

The FBI is currently working in tandem with local, state, federal, and tribal partners in ongoing investigations aimed at determining the root cause of these fires. In their pursuit of justice and fairness, the Bureau is now appealing to the public for any assistance they can provide in helping to identify the origin of these devastating fires.

The South Fork Fire is 31% contained while the Salt Fire is only 7% contained, with more than 1,100 personnel focusing their efforts to combat these fires in the Mescalero Apache Reservation, Village of Ruidoso, and City of Ruidoso Downs.

Weather and the Wildfires

Due to shifts in weather patterns, the containment and extinguishing efforts for these fires are hindered and considered to be long-duration events. This is primarily because changes in weather and fire activity increase in unburned pockets of fuel, such as stumps and downed trees. The gradual reignition of these fuels may result in visible smoke plumes, making the situation appear in a grim light.

Support and Relief for Victims

Recently, major disaster declaration was granted for federal funds aimed at supporting the recovery efforts for individuals, households, and businesses in Lincoln County and the Mescalero Apache Tribe. This came after Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham made a plea that was quickly approved for the dire situation.

Other Fire Sources

It’s important to note that wildfires are also frequently caused by lightning, downed power lines or carelessly managed campfires that are left unintended or not fully extinguished.

How to Provide Info to the FBI

If anyone has information that may shed light on the cause of these fires, they are strongly encouraged to contact the FBI at 1-800-225-5324 or submit the information online at their official FBI tip portal. Those who prefer to text their tip can also do so by texting “BIAMMU” followed by “MESCALERO FIRE + the tip” to 847411.