KY official: Natural Bridge State Resort Park wildfire caused by 'probable arson'

Victoria Moorwood, Cincinnati Enquirer
·1 min read
The wildfire at Natural Bridge State Resort Park in Slade, Kentucky, was caused by "probable arson," a state official said.
The wildfire at Natural Bridge State Resort Park in Slade, Kentucky, was caused by "probable arson," a state official said.

The wildfire that burned over 100 acres of the Natural Bridge State Resort Park in Slade, Kentucky, was likely human-caused, officials say.

The fire, which shut the park down last week, was started by "probable arson," John Mura, executive director of communications for the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet, said Thursday.

"As new information comes to light, we will follow up on it," Mura said about officials' ongoing investigation.

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The fire started April 17 and burned through 125 acres, also spreading into the Daniel Boone National Forest, according to a press release from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Kentucky State Parks. Following a joint response from the Kentucky Division of Forestry, U.S. Forest Service and local fire departments, the fire was fully contained Monday.

The Natural Bridge State Resort Park will resume operations Friday and trails, except for Balance Rock and Hoods Branch, will be open, park officials said on Facebook.

According to the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet website, 693 wildfires have been recorded in the state this year. Over a third of those were caused by arson.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: KY Natural Bridge State Resort Park wildfire caused by 'probable arson'