DENVER – Good morning! Here’s what you need to know for Monday, April 23, 2018.
1. Large fire was human-caused
Investigators in El Paso County say the 117 Fire, which burned 65 square miles and destroyed 23 homes, was human-caused, though the exact origin isn't known. El Paso County Sheriff Bill Elder said lightning has been ruled out as a cause and it was likely something like a cigarette butt or sparks from a car that started the fire.
2. More walkouts planned this week
Teachers across the Denver area will once again be walking out of school this week, calling for better pay, more school funding and the preservation of their pension system. Multiple school districts are planning to take part in the walkouts, which are scheduled for Thursday and Friday.
3. Avalanche out of playoffs
The Colorado Avalanche lost game 6 last night to fall to the Nashville Predators 4-2 in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.
4. Royal baby watch is on
Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, was taken to the hospital in the early stages of labor this morning. The duchess is pregnant with her third child. The baby will be fifth in line to the British throne, after grandfather Prince Charles, father Prince William and two siblings.
5. Nice today but a change on the way
Today will be sunny in the morning across the Denver area, turning partly to mostly cloudy with a few late day showers and thunderstorms. Highs will be around 70 degrees. Tuesday, we have the chance for early morning showers. A rain/snow mix is possible as lows drop to around freezing.
