SUBLETTE COUNTY, WYO – The Roosevelt Fire has been determined to be human caused, originating from an abandoned warming fire on a steep slope in the upper reaches of the Hoback River drainage on Saturday, September 15. The incident has racked up $15.2M in suppression costs to date.
Numerous backcountry users were present in the area between Friday September 14 and Sunday, September 16. Investigators are asking for anyone with information as to the cause of the incident, or persons responsible, to contact US Forest Service Law Enforcement at 208-557-5852. Please leave a detailed message with information as to how investigators may reach you.
Fire Investigator Officers and Agents with US Forest Service Law Enforcement and Investigations on the Bridger-Teton National Forest have been working tirelessly to investigate and determine the cause of the Roosevelt incident. This fire tragically began during a period of heavy recreation use, as many visitors were enjoying their public lands during opening of rifle deer season. Progress has been made with the investigation, including numerous interviews, multiple examinations of the scene and outstanding support from the public.
As unseasonably dry and windy conditions persist over the landscape, the US Forest Service asks for help in exercising the highest level of caution in all outdoor activities. Please adhere to all fire restrictions on public lands and safe fire practices in those designated, developed recreations sites where campfires are allowed. Hot vehicle exhaust systems, camp stoves, shooting activities and smoking are all potential sources of fires often forgotten.
Visitors are encouraged to pay extra attention when recreating outdoors. Please help protect your National Forests as we make our way through this period of dry conditions and abnormally high fire danger.
