Homeowner Charged In Wildfire That Burned 500+ Acres

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LARIMER COUNTY, Colo. (CBS4)- A homeowner has been charged in connection with a wildfire in Larimer County that burned 500 acres.

Investigators said the fire grew out of control after a homeowner, Merrell Short, started burning debris illegally.

(credit: Wellington Fire Dept.)

The fire grew to more than 500 acres on Sunday afternoon near East County Road 82 and Rower Ranch Road before firefighters were able to control it.

Short was arrested on allegations of firing woods or prairie, a felony.

(credit: Wellington Fire Dept.)

Additional Information from Larimer County:

Anyone with information regarding this incident or any crime is asked to call Larimer County Sheriff's Office at 970-416-1985 or Crime Stoppers at 970-221-6868 where you will remain anonymous and possibly be eligible for a cash reward.

(credit: Wellington Fire Dept.)

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