Pine Flat-area wildfire dies down. Investigators have a potential cause, but ask public’s help

Crews continued to work Monday toward full containment of the Hog Fire near Pine Flat Reservoir, while investigators said they had zeroed in on a potential cause.

Officially, the blaze remains under investigation but there is suspicion it was caused by a vehicle, according to Sierra National Forest spokesperson Alex Olow.

The Hog Fire broke out Friday along Trimmer Springs Road near Maxon Road, on the south slope of Hog Mountain. It was at 533 acres and 95% containment as of a Monday afternoon update. Olow said crews were doing mop-up.

On Friday, a small number of structures were threatened and an evacuation order was put in place. But no buildings were lost and residents were allowed to return that night.

Investigators are seeking help from anyone who was on Trimmer Springs Road between Lakeview Marina and Maxon Road between the hours of 1:30 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. Friday, or who otherwise might have relevant information.

To contact investigators, email SM.SF.sierranfinfo@usda.gov.

This story was originally published June 14, 2020 at 4:30 PM.