8-21-24: Flathead Pass Fire Investigation

On August 21, 2024, the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office and a U.S. Forest Service smokejumper plane responded to a reported fire in the area of Flathead Pass in Gallatin County. As a result, the fire was determined to be caused by a group of campers.

Subsequent to the investigation, each camper was charged with Disorderly Conduct.

In this case, starting a campfire in the peak of fire season is a hazardous act which serves no legitimate purpose.

Please note that should a campfire become uncontrolled, the persons who started the fire will be held criminally and financially responsible for said fire. The Bridger Foothills fire of 2020 cost approximately $10 million, according to Gallatin County Emergency Management.