Man arrested on charges linked to California wildfire

WEED, Calif. - Police have arrested a 24-year-old man in connection with a fast-moving wildfire that burned more than 500 acres, destroyed 157 homes and caused the evacuation of thousands.

Ronald Beau Marshall of Weed, was taken into custody after a three-week investigation into the Boles fire in Northern California, authorities said. He was charged with arson Saturday and bail was set at $250,000.

After the fire was set, it spread with the help of strong winds through the town near the Oregon border, driving more than 4,000 people from their homes.

"As fire danger remains extreme across California, arson puts life, property and natural resources at risk and we will continue to dedicate as many resources as needed to track down and prosecute those who purposely threaten our State," said Chief Ken Pimlott, director of CAL FIRE.

Officials still do not know exactly how the fire was started and the investigation into the case is still ongoing.