Man Pleads Not Guilty in Connection to California’s Devastating Park Fire

Photo byWSBT

BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. — The man accused of sparking one of the most devastating wildfires in California’s history, Ronnie Dean Stout II, stood before the court on Thursday, resolute in his plea of not guilty to arson charges linked to the catastrophic Park Fire.

At 42, Stout, a resident of Chico, is at the heart of an investigation into the blaze that has ravaged 429,460 acres, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The Park Fire, currently 61% contained, has claimed over 600 structures, marking it as the fourth-largest wildfire in the state’s history.

Stout’s legal journey is far from over. He is scheduled to return to court on September 19th for the setting of a preliminary hearing. His previous court appearance in early August was adjourned to allow his defense team more time to scrutinize the evidence against him. For now, Stout remains in custody without bail.

This unfolding case continues to capture the attention of a community grappling with the aftermath of a disaster that has forever altered the landscape and lives in its path.