Castle Rock, Colo., USA
A U.S. Forest Service employee has been accused of starting the largest wildfire in Colorado history. Terry Lynn Barton, 38, initially reported she discovered the fire at a campsite after smelling smoke. When investigators challenged her story, Barton admitted causing the blaze herself. She said it happened when she angrily burned a letter from her estranged husband. More than 5,000 people had to evacuate their homes as the flames raced over 100,000 acres of parched land. As a forestry technician, Barton
The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.
Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.