A federal investigation into a series of wildfires in New Mexico has uncovered potential links between a man and his girlfriend and at least six of these fires, including the particularly destructive Salt Fire, which ravaged nearly 8,000 acres of land. These findings are based on recently unsealed court documents, which provide a detailed account of the investigation.

According to an affidavit filed by an FBI agent, the investigation focuses on 16 suspicious fires that erupted on the Mescalero Apache Reservation near Ruidoso, New Mexico. This investigation began in early May and gained significant momentum last month, particularly after the Salt Fire had already consumed over 7,000 acres of forested land on the reservation.

The affidavit reveals that all 16 fires were deemed "human-caused." These incidents occurred between May 3 and June 18 within a 25-square-mile area of the reservation. Among these fires, the Salt Fire emerged as the most devastating. Investigators noted that the severity of the Salt Fire and the considerable resources it required notably hindered the response efforts to the South Fork Fire—a naturally occurring blaze that destroyed more than 1,400 structures and resulted in two fatalities. The Salt Fire reportedly ignited approximately two hours after the South Fork Fire was reported.

The investigation led to the identification of the couple following crucial evidence. Witnesses reported seeing two individuals driving away from one of the fire sites in a Jeep Grand Cherokee. This vehicle was subsequently observed fleeing from two additional fire locations. Investigators also discovered impressions of Vans-branded sneakers at two of the fire scenes.

A significant breakthrough occurred when an agent from the Bureau of Indian Affairs' Office of Justice Services conducted a traffic stop on the Jeep, which was occupied by the man and his girlfriend, less than a mile from where the Salt Fire began. The tire tread patterns on the Jeep were found to closely match those found at the fire locations. Additionally, a shoe print from the woman’s Vans sneakers was consistent with the impressions found at the fire scenes. The woman voluntarily surrendered her Vans shoes to the FBI as part of the investigation.

Interestingly, the man in the Jeep had reported the initial fire on May 3, identifying himself as a wildland firefighter who attempted to extinguish it. However, investigators observed a stark contrast in his response to the Salt Fire. Despite his claim that the Salt Fire was visible from his residence, he did not make any attempt to report or address the fire, which was inconsistent with his actions regarding the earlier incident.

The FBI has withheld further comment, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. They have directed public attention to a news release from last month seeking assistance in identifying the individuals responsible for the fires.

The National Park Service reports that nearly 85% of wildland fires in the United States are caused by human activities, such as unattended campfires, debris burning, equipment malfunctions, and arson. The current severe heat waves across the country have exacerbated wildfire conditions, further complicating firefighting efforts.

This case highlights the essential role of comprehensive investigation and evidence collection in addressing the causes of wildfires and ensuring accountability for those responsible for such destructive events.