Wildfire arrests reported in Albania and California

In Albania, a 73-year-old man, identified as Q. B., has been arrested following a wildfire in the “Abazë” neighborhood of Krujë. Authorities state the fire began on August 8 when the suspect attempted to burn grass near his home. Strong winds caused the flames to spread toward Mount Krujë, prompting partial evacuations of nearby residential areas. The suspect faces potential charges for “Destruction of Property by Fire” as firefighting efforts continue.

In California, a 65-year-old man named Herbert Wayne Smith was arrested in connection with a wildfire in the Sierra Nevada foothills of Calaveras County. Investigators believe the blaze was ignited by sparks from a chainsaw while Smith was cutting scrap wood. The fire destroyed seven structures and scorched over 15 square miles of forest. A body was discovered inside a burned home near Angels Camp, and authorities are investigating whether the fire contributed to the individual's death.