Lake Christine Fire near Basalt up to 5,916 acres; 2 arrested

Two people are facing misdemeanor arson charges after allegedly starting the Lake Christine Fire in Basalt, which has claimed thousands of acres of land near residential neighborhoods.

As of Sunday, the fire had grown to 5,916 acres and is 8% contained.

According to the Aspen Daily News, 22-year-old Allison Marcus and 23-year-old Richard Miller of El Jebel are accused of firing tracer rounds at a shooting range outside Basalt Tuesday. The fire spread from the shooting range north toward Basalt Mountain.

More than 500 homes have been evacuated due to the fire; at least three homes have been destroyed, officials confirmed Thursday.

This is the latest in a string of wildfires plaguing the state of Colorado, including the Spring Fire, High Chateau Fire, and the 416 Fire.