Federal authorities are offering a reward for information regarding the individuals responsible for starting two devastating wildfires in New Mexico that resulted in two fatalities and the destruction of hundreds of homes last week.
The FBI announced a reward of up to $10,000 on Saturday for any information related to the South Fork Fire and Salt Fire in southern New Mexico, which forced numerous residents to evacuate.
In a statement, the agency requested public assistance in determining the cause of the fires near Ruidoso, New Mexico, which were first reported on June 17. The notice strongly indicated that human involvement was suspected, as the reward is specifically for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the responsible parties.
As of Saturday, the South Fork Fire, spanning 26 square miles, was 26% contained, while the Salt Fire, covering 12 square miles, was 7% contained. Full containment is not expected until July 15, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.
Recent rainfall and milder weather have aided over 1,000 firefighters in their efforts to control the fires. Crews took advantage of favorable conditions on Saturday to establish protective lines using bulldozers and hand crews working with shovels in challenging terrain near Ruidoso.
In other New Mexico areas, heavy rain and flash flood warnings led to mandatory evacuations in Las Vegas and regions near Albuquerque, with shelters set up for displaced residents. Evacuation orders remained in place in some areas on Saturday, but flash flood warnings were lifted.
The fires have resulted in the destruction or damage of approximately 1,400 structures, as well as other risks such as downed power lines, damaged utilities, and flood threats in burn areas. Evacuations and road closures near Ruidoso are still in effect, with full-time residents allowed to return on Monday.
President Joe Biden declared a disaster for parts of southern New Mexico, releasing resources for recovery efforts, temporary housing, and assistance for affected communities in Lincoln County and on Mescalero Apache Tribal lands.
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell assured ongoing support for affected communities during a meeting with state and tribal leaders on Saturday. The Southwest has faced extreme dryness and heat, contributing to wildfire outbreaks exceeding the 10-year average nationwide.
