A suspect has been identified in the Oak Fire that broke out Monday, Dec. 27, at approximately 2:30 p.m. near C-470 and Kipling. The “human-caused,” fire started near Westerly Apartments, according to a tweet from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s office. West Metro Fire investigators are calling the event arson and are working with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.
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More information will be provided as the case progresses.
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The fire, estimated to have burned nearly 150 acres, has been 70% contained, but not before closing traffic in both directions on C-470 between Ken Caryl and S. Kipling for emergency vehicle access.
Firefighters from West Metro Fire, South Metro Fire, and other agencies fought the fire on the ground and in the air.
The State of Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control sent its single-engine air taker, or SEAT, to help contain the fire as strong winds added to officials’ concerns.
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According to official statements, no structures were burned and all evacuation orders have been lifted.
Fire crews remain on the scene and investigators are pursuing “all leads in this arson case.”