The FBI is offering a $10,000 reward for anyone who can provide information that will lead to the arrest of the suspects responsible for starting two wildfires in New Mexico. These fires resulted in the deaths of two people and the destruction or damage of many structures. The South Fork and Salt Fires were found near Ruidoso on June 17, and they caused significant damage. As a result of these twin wildfires, many people were forced to evacuate from their homes.
Residents of Ruidoso will be allowed to return to their village on Monday morning, but they have been advised to bring essential supplies such as drinking water and at least a week’s worth of food. They should also be prepared for the possibility of being without gas, electricity, or water. The FBI is asking for the public’s help in identifying the cause of the fires, with strong suggestions that humans may be to blame. The reward of $10,000 is being offered for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for starting the fires near Ruidoso.
Lincoln County Manager Randall Camp mentioned that around a thousand homes have been lost due to the fires. President Joe Biden has declared a disaster for parts of southern New Mexico, allowing for additional funding and resources to aid in recovery efforts. This includes providing temporary housing, low-cost loans for uninsured property, and other emergency assistance in Lincoln County and on lands owned by the Mescalero Apache Tribe.
Over 1,100 firefighters are currently battling the flames in challenging terrain. The South Fork Fire, covering 26 square miles, was 31% contained on Sunday, while the Salt Fire, spanning 12 square miles, was only 7% contained. It is anticipated that full containment will not be achieved until July 15. The threat of flash floods still looms over Ruidoso as the fires continue to burn on both sides of the village.
Authorities have warned of various risks such as downed power lines, damaged water, sewer, and gas lines, as well as flooding in burn scars, which could pose dangers to both firefighters and the public. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and FEMA administrator Deanne Criswell toured the disaster area on Saturday to assess the situation.
Despite the assistance from the federal and state governments, Ruidoso Mayor Lynn Crawford believes that it may take up to five years for the area to fully recover from the devastation caused by the wildfires. The community is facing a long road to recovery, but with support and determination, they hope to rebuild and heal from this tragic event.