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MOAB — Investigators say it was likely fireworks that caused the large wildfire that forced the evacuation of about 200 homes.
Three individuals were questioned, originally denying any involvement. They have since admitted to having fireworks in the area, Moab Valley Fire District Chief Corky Brewer said.
Brewer noted that the area where the fire started is frequented by transients, and there have been signs of campfires built there in the past.
"They weren't just walking through, they were staying down there," Brewer said.
The fire was reported as contained at 8 p.m. Tuesday, but Brewer said that it will likely take two to three days before the burning has completely stopped.
"It's contained, and because of the heavy brush we're looking at at least 2 days we'll probably have to be patrolling it," Brewer said.
Winds on Tuesday were much weaker than the 45 to 60 mph winds that fueled Monday's fire.
The fire started Monday afternoon in the Matheson Preserve area and came within inches of some homes. The evacuation order was lifted Monday night.
"This was close," Brewer said. "We just about lost some homes."
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Written with contributions from Benjamin Wood and Pat Reavy.
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