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Flat tire repair sparked Grand Junction fire that forced hundreds to flee

Posted at 3:09 PM, Apr 04, 2018
and last updated 2018-04-04 17:09:05-04

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — A person attempting repair a flat tire on riding lawnmower claimed responsibility for a 10-acre brush fire that destroyed several structures and forced hundreds out of their homes in Grand Junction Monday evening.

According to a statement from the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, the person who claimed responsibility was trying to fix a flat tire on a riding lawnmower when tall grass ignited. 

The dry brush and winds quickly turned a spark into an out-of-control fire.

The Rosevale Fire spread quickly, prompting the evacuation of 300 homes in the Redlands neighborhood near the Colorado National Monument.   

It burned across seven properties, destroying one home, several outbuildings and multiple vehicles before crews were able to get a handle on it late Monday night. No injuries were reported. 

The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office will be referring the case to the Mesa County District Attorney’s Office to determine the appropriate charge. 

No arrests have been made at this time. The person's name will be released once charges are filed.