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Arson Suspected As The Cause Of The Rich Mountain Fire In Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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By Compiled From N... - November 22nd, 2023

The NPS is seeking the public's help with finding the arsonist who started the Rich Mountain Fire at Great Smoky Mountains National Park / NPS file photo

Arson is suspected as the cause of the Rich Mountain Fire in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the National Park Service is requesting the public’s help in identifying those responsible. 

The initial investigation indicates two fires started on November 20 in the Rich Mountain area by an unknown arsonist under high wind conditions, a red flag warning and a park-wide burn ban. The Rich Mountain Fire was reported on November 20 around 2:30 pm near the intersection of Old Cades Cove Road and Rich Mountain Road. The fire prompted an early-morning voluntary evacuation of homes near the park boundary on November 21.   

“Intentionally setting fires in the park, except in designated rings or picnic areas, is always illegal and is extremely dangerous, especially under the extreme weather conditions we saw this week,” said Boone Vandzura, Chief Ranger of Resource and Visitor Protection. “We are asking visitors and neighbors for help as we work to identify those responsible for this suspected arson.”   

A white truck was seen at the Rich Mountain trailhead on November 20 around 10 a.m. This vehicle may not be involved in the incident, but the occupant(s) may have seen something and have information to assist the investigation. 

Anybody who might have information that could help identify those responsible for this suspected arson is asked by the park to please submit a tip. You may do so anonymously and a financial award is available for validated tips.   

CALL or TEXT the NPS-wide Tip Line 888-653-0009 
ONLINE form go.nps.gov/SubmitATip  
EMAIL [email protected] 
EMERGENCY dial 9-1-1   

As of today, the Rich Mountain Fire is 100% contained. Firefighters continue to mop up the fire and will monitor it through the weekend. Thirty-one personnel are assigned to the Rich Mountain Fire, including National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service and firefighters.  

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