Investigators: Numbers Fire south of Gardnerville likely started by faulty semi exhaust system
UPDATE: Fire investigators say a semi-tractor trailer truck with a faulty exhaust system is the likely cause of the #NumbersFire south of Gardnerville.
During the investigation, several fires were located along Highway 395 that are believed to be related to the Numbers Fire.
Investigators gathered physical evidence that indicates a semi-tractor trailer truck, while operating southbound on Highway 395, most likely experienced a failure in its exhaust system. This possible failure allowed hot particles to be discharged along the highway right-of-way, igniting dry grass and brush.
Any persons who may have additional information about a semi-tractor trailer truck seen on Highway 395 heading south at around 6:45 p.m. on July 6, 2020, in the area of the Numbers Fire, is encouraged to use the following e-mail address 2020firetips@gmail.com.
The investigator team consisted of East Fork Fire Protection District, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Land Management, and the US Forest Service.
***
Even with a few hotspots, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management reports Monday that the Numbers Fire, which began a week ago July 6, is 98 percent contained.
As of Monday morning the fire, 10 miles southeast of Gardnerville, had burned 18,380 acres. There appeared to be a flareup in the fire area on Monday morning. Details on that are unknown at this time. We will update as information becomes available.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. It destroyed 3 homes and 37 outbuildings. Fire officials seek public assistance for a multi-agency investigation from anyone traveling Highway 95 between Ridge View and Holbrook Junction on July 6, around 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. If you have any information, please email 2020firetips@gmail.com. All information will be kept confidential.
Fire response in this area is a cooperative partnership between multiple agencies including, the Bureau of Land Management Nevada, BIA Forestry and Wildland Fire Management, Nevada Division of Forestry, and East Fork Professional Firefighters.
Go here for updates on the fire.