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Investigators determine arson was cause of Bidwell Mansion fire

The remains of Bidwell Mansion in Chico, Calif. on Dec. 11, 2024.
Erik Adams
/
NSPR
The remains of Bidwell Mansion in Chico, Calif. on Dec. 11, 2024.

Investigators have determined that arson is what caused the fire that burned down Bidwell Mansion last week.

At a press conference this afternoon, representatives with California State Parks said they’re still searching for a suspect.

There were more questions than answers. Officials would not comment on a possible motive, whether surveillance footage existed, or where the fire started.

“I want to share more information. We do.” said Aaron Wright, chief of the California State Parks Northern Buttes District. “The team has been working tirelessly on this, but I don't want to compromise this investigation, and I don't want to say something that's going to cause any negative delays or anything that's going to contradict or stop us from pursuing this investigation and getting this done as quickly as possible.”

Rumors began circulating on social media and by word of mouth about the cause of the fire that destroyed the mansion. The main hearsay being that the fire started from an illegal warming fire.

Group of reporters gather for the press conference in Chico, Calif. on Dec. 17, 2024.
Ken Devol
/
NSPR
Group of reporters gather for the press conference in Chico, Calif. on Dec. 17, 2024.

City of Chico and Chico Fire Department officials have both told media outlets that an initial report that someone set a warming fire near the mansion is no longer supported.

On Friday, Dan Collins, Cal Fire captain and public information officer, confirmed with NSPR that the warming fire speculation is quote “a rumor” and that an investigation is still underway.

At today’s press conference, Wright told a group of about 15 reporters that the loss of the mansion was huge for many in Chico.

“I have a nine-year-old son who, because of all the disasters in Butte County, who isn't going to get to see the mansion,” Wright said. “We've talked for years of taking him up to the tower to get to see this where his dad works, and now he'll never have that opportunity.”

Investigators are asking the public to share any photos or information that could help with the investigation.

The public can report information with this online tip form.

Adia White is a broadcast journalist and producer with nearly 10 years of experience. Her work has appeared on WNYC, This American Life, Capital Public Radio and other local and national programs. She started at North State Public Radio as a freelance reporter in 2017 before leaving for a stint at Northern California Public Media in Santa Rosa.