Reno man accused of torching his vehicle, sparking wildfire
RENO – A Reno man has been arrested on suspicion of torching his vehicle and starting a wildfire after leading authorities on a chase.
Washoe County sheriff’s deputies said 48-year-old Charles Sanford was booked Friday into the Washoe County Jail on charges of arson, eluding a peace officer and reckless driving.
Sanford is accused of fleeing after a deputy tried to make a traffic stop of him Monday.
Investigators said the suspect slowed his vehicle when he reached a dirt road in west Reno, and fled on foot after exiting the vehicle.
They said his vehicle then left the roadway and flames could be seen inside the vehicle as it careened down a ravine and sparked the wildfire.
The 150-acre fire burned away from structures and no homes were threatened.