A grass fire in Jefferson County that burned 153 acres near Chatfield Reservoir was human caused, according to investigators.
The Oak fire started at about 2:40 p.m. Monday along the hogback near South Kipling Parkway and C-470. The fire burned close to homes and, at various points Monday afternoon, some nearby neighborhoods appeared likely to be evacuated.
On Tuesday evening, West Metro Fire Rescue said that the fire is 70% contained and that firefighters continue to work on suppressing the fire.
UPDATE: – fire is 50% contained. 25 firefighters working today in steep terrain to extend fireline around perimeter & continue mop up. You can expect to see smoke from small hotspots in interior. WMFR getting help from , , & Foothills Fire.
— WestMetroFire (@WestMetroFire)
The fire started west of the Westerly Apartments in an open space area where’s there is typically heavy foot traffic along several trails, according to WMFR.
On Tuesday evening the fire department said that a suspect has been identified in connection to the fire and investigators are working with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.
Smoke was visible Tuesday from hot spots in the fire interior. Several nearby fire departments aided WMFR in battling the fire.
