Arrest Made in Wellington Wildfire

An arrest has been made in the wildfire that burned 525 acres of land near Wellington on Sunday.

According to a news release, deputies learned that Merrell Short, 57, had been illegally burning debris on his property just before 3:11 p.m. when the fire quickly spread and lost control over several surrounding properties. It was contained by the Wellington Fire Department and other resources on the scene from Laramie County District 1, F.E. Warren Air Force Base, and Nunn Volunteer Fire.

Short was arrested and booked into Larimer County Jail on allegations of firing woods or prairie - a Class 6 felony.

The Coloradoan reports that no structures were threatened, but that horses, pigs, and other animals were moved.

This is an ongoing investigation. If you have any information about this or any other incident, please contact the Larimer County Sheriff's Office at 970-416-1985 or Crime Stoppers at 970-221-6868 where you'll remain anonymous and could be eligible for a cash reward.

Charges are merely an accusation and Short is presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty.