FOREST LAKES, Ariz. (KSAZ) – A manhunt is underway for an arson suspect who is also accused of opening fire on a Forest Service employee Tuesday.
The incident happened in the morning, in the Forest Lakes area, about 130 miles northeast of Downtown Phoenix. Crews were evacuated from the Canyon Point Campground, located just off Highway 260, as a search for the suspect got underway.
The Forest Service who was shot at was reportedly not injured.
Authorities believe the shooting suspect also started eight fires intentionally on Monday, on the south side of Highway 260 in Forest Lakes.
Fire officials in Forest Lake said the man has been staying in the forest, and would go into the Canyon Point Campground for water, as well as nearby stores for food.
According to a statement released Tuesday night, the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office is actively looking for the suspect, with other agencies assisting including the Department of Public Safety (DPS) SWAT Team and Air Ranger, FBI’s SWAT team, Gila County Sheriff’s Office, Forest Service fire and law enforcement personnel, Forest Lakes Fire Department, Arizona Game and Fish, White Mountain Apache Police Department, and the Navajo County Sheriff’s Office.
Anyone with information should alert local authorities. The suspect, according to the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, is considered armed and dangerous, and people are asked to not approach the suspect.
http://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/arizona-news/265697949-story