WENATCHEE, Wash. – After a yearlong investigation, the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) announced the arrest of an East Wenatchee man in connection with the Balsam Root Fire.
On July 4, 2024, a fire ignited in the area of Horse Lake Rd on the hillside west of Wenatchee, prompting an investigation that included witness interviews, evidence processing as well as DNA collection and testing.
According to a release by CCSO, 18-year-old Erik Carranza-Tellez intentionally lit a mortar-type firework that sparked the fire.
Carranza-Tellez was booked into the Chelan County Regional Justice Center on charges of malicious mischief and reckless burning.
The investigation is ongoing, and further information will be released as it becomes available.
