Chico Man Arrested for Park Fire Arson

A wildfire known as the Park Fire has erupted in California, consuming over 120,000 acres and becoming the state's largest fire of the year. Authorities have arrested 42-year-old Ronnie Dean Stout II, a registered sex offender, who is suspected of igniting the fire by pushing a burning car into a gully in Bidwell Park. The car rolled 60 feet down an embankment, igniting surrounding areas and leading to mass evacuations in Butte and Tehama counties. Stout, who has a criminal history including previous felony convictions, faces arson charges and could receive a life sentence under California's 'Three Strikes' law if convicted. As of Thursday, the fire was only 3% contained and continued to threaten nearby communities. This incident underscores the growing concern over wildfires in California, exacerbated by extreme heat and dry conditions.