A man has been arrested in connection with setting fire to several acres in the Imperial National Wildlife Refuge.
According to the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office, on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at approximately 1:59 p.m., deputies were dispatched to the area of the Colorado River and Zoo Island in reference to a large fire.
Multiple agencies in the area also responded to assist; to include, Lake Martinez Fire, Yuma Proving Ground Fire, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Rural Metro, and Bureau of Land Management.
When the deputy arrived on the scene, the fire was active and fire crews worked to extinguish the fire as it burned several wildland acres of the Imperial National Wildlife Refuge.
Initial investigation revealed arson was the cause of the fire. The suspect identified as Jason Bradley Martin, 47, of Yuma, AZ, was arrested and booked into the Yuma County Detention Center on Reckless Burning, Arson of Structure/Property, Criminal Damage, Burn Wildlands Violated Order, and Endangerment.
Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office at 928-783-4427 or 78-CRIME to remain anonymous. You can also visit www.yumacountysheriff.org to submit an anonymous tip