A Montrose County, Colorado man, Brent Garber, is facing criminal charges after allegedly starting a forest fire that burned over 7,000 acres while trying to cremate his dog in August 2024. The Bucktail Fire, which was one of Colorado’s largest fires that year, was reportedly started by Garber, who now faces two counts of arson and one count of second-degree trespassing. The fire was 80% contained by Wednesday with the help of over 100 firefighting personnel.
Court documents show that a dugout where Garber allegedly attempted to hold a funeral for his dog Rocket was the location where the fire was first ignited. Above the entrance to the dugout, investigators found a rock inscribed with Rocket’s name and the dates of his life. Garber reportedly put his dog in a pit with pieces of wood before lighting it on fire. Investigators also discovered that Garber threw a spray can on the fire, which eventually exploded and caught a nearby tree on fire.
After the fire was reported, a police officer saw Garber riding an ATV close to where the fire started. Garber had allegedly told the officer days earlier that he planned to bury his dog on private property. Rocket had been put down by court order after getting into a fight with another dog. Garber is scheduled to appear in court and faces three felony charges – two for arson and one for second-degree trespassing.
This incident highlights the dangers of mishandling fire and the devastating consequences it can have on the environment and surrounding communities. It serves as a reminder of the importance of following proper procedures for disposing of remains and conducting controlled burns. The Bucktail Fire was a significant event in Colorado and required extensive resources to contain, underscoring the impact that careless actions can have.
The intentional nature of Garber’s actions in starting the fire for the purpose of cremation raises questions about his judgment and decision-making. It also points to the emotional toll that the loss of a beloved pet can have on individuals. While mourning the loss of a pet is a natural response, it is essential to find safe and lawful ways to honor their memory without endangering others or causing harm to the environment.
Authorities are taking the matter seriously, as indicated by the multiple felony charges brought against Garber. The legal consequences of his actions will likely serve as a deterrent to others who may consider engaging in similar behavior. The trial proceedings will shed more light on the circumstances surrounding the fire and the events leading up to it. It is a stark reminder of the responsibility individuals have in handling fire and the potential impact of their actions on the broader community.
