Alleged Arsonist Arrested After Devastating Forest Fire in Ávila

The Civil Guard has apprehended a man suspected of starting an intentional forest fire that ravaged nearly 2,200 hectares across the municipalities of Cuevas del Valle, Mombeltrán, and El Arenal in Ávila. The arrested individual has reportedly confessed to the charges, shedding light on a case that has drawn attention due to its size and impact on the local environment. According to investigation sources, it is believed that the suspect's motivations may be tied to personal labor interests. Notably, he had previously worked in firefighting and secured a new job just ten days after the fire erupted. Police investigations were able to focus on this individual after the Civil Guard identified him on July 31 while he was trying to evade the police as he headed toward Cuevas del Valle. The fire ignited at the end of July, around 300 meters from the N502 road, and spread rapidly due to strong wind gusts that facilitated its growth. Given the severity of the situation, a Level 2 emergency was declared, which resulted in preventive confinement orders for two nearby towns. The technical inspection carried out by the Nature Protection Service of the Civil Guard, in collaboration with the Forest Fire Investigation Brigade (BIIF) of the Junta de Castilla y León, revealed clear indications of arson. The Civil Guard has since transmitted the case to the First Instance and Instruction Court of Arenas de San Pedro in Ávila, as well as the Provincial Public Prosecutors Office for the Environment and Urbanism, indicating a significant legal process ahead for the suspect. This incident underscores the ongoing battle against arson and the measures being taken to protect Spain's natural landscapes. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2