2 arrested, accused in connection with Oak Fire in southwestern Colorado

Two suspects have been arrested for their connection to the Oak Fire that started in Aspen Springs in southwestern Colorado earlier this month. Sergio Alaniz Jr., 41 and Ross Heirigs, 60, were arrested on arson charges, according to the Archuleta County Sheriff's Office. 

Investigators said the Oak Fire was started by an illegal burn at 152 Oak Drive in Aspen Springs on the afternoon of Aug. 10. Aspen Springs is located about 10 miles west of Pagosa Springs. That burn was, according to law enforcement, in violation of an ordinance for the regulation of open burning in unincorporated Archuleta County. 

The sheriff's office said the fire quickly spread through the subdivision and into another subdivision before firefighters were able to contain it. The Oak Fire burned approximately 75 acres. 

Some buildings were destroyed and other property was damaged.