Investigations unable to determine cause of Tunnel Fire near Flagstaff
Investigations into what caused the Tunnel Fire that burned near Flagstaff a year ago April have come back inconclusive.
Coconino National Forest officials said the fire's investigation is complete, and although they were unable to determine a specific cause of the fire they were able to locate the origin.
The Tunnel Fire was originally reported in the late afternoon on Sunday, April 17, 2022, approximately 9 miles northeast of Flagstaff, near the Timberline/Fernwood community.
How long did it take for the fire to be contained?
Firefighters responded to the fire immediately and extinguished any indications of the fire on the day it was reported, according to Coconino National Forest officials.
Coconino National Forest officials said firefighters then returned the following morning and found all control lines held.
"All visible smoke and hot spots were extinguished prior to firefighters leaving the area," officials said.
According to Coconino National Forest officials, by early morning on Tuesday, April 19, 2022, a combination of strong winds near 60 mph and warm conditions over the fire area resulted in firefighters not being able to suppress the flames.
What date was the Tunnel Fire contained?
The fire grew to 19,060 acres before it was 100% contained on June 1, 2022, Coconino National Forest officials said.
How much damage was done?
1,335 structures were threatened.
30 residences were lost to the fire.
24 outbuildings were lost to the fire.
No lives were lost.
Law enforcement encourages anyone who may have information regarding who started the Tunnel Fire to contact the Coconino National Forest at 928-527-3600 or Coconino County Sheriff’s Office at 928-774-4523, option 1.
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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Investigations unable to determine cause of Tunnel Fire near Flagstaff
