Arson suspect in Park Fire claims fire was accidental, Butte County prosecutor says

The man accused of starting one of the largest wildfires in California history maintains he did not start the Park Fire on purpose and denies pushing a burning car into a ravine, as a witness alleged, the Butte County district attorney said Monday. But District Attorney Mike Ramsey said he believes “the evidence is more strongly biased toward the witness.” Ronnie Dean Stout II is accused of starting the fire that broke out shortly before 3 p.m. Wednesday, July 24, at Alligator Hole in Upper Bidwell Park.